Lawsuit challenges broader federal scrutiny of public-benefit use by green-card applicants
by Emmitt Barry, Worthy News Washington D.C. Bureau Chief
(Worthy News) – New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani’s administration joined Chicago, San Francisco, Seattle and two counties Monday in suing the Trump administration over its revived “public charge” immigration rule.
The rule, scheduled to take effect Sept. 18, gives immigration officers greater discretion to deny green cards or visas when they determine that an applicant is likely to depend on public assistance. Officers may consider the applicant’s circumstances and use of certain food, health-care and housing benefits.
The city-led coalition argues that the policy exceeds the Department of Homeland Security’s authority and could discourage immigrant families—including those with U.S.-citizen children—from using benefits for which they legally qualify. A separate lawsuit led by New York Attorney General Letitia James and other Democratic-led states raises similar objections.
The Trump administration says the policy reinforces a longstanding principle of American immigration law: Those seeking permanent residency should demonstrate that they can support themselves. U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services said the rule protects public resources and promotes self-reliance.
Both lawsuits were filed in federal court in Manhattan. The courts will now decide whether the administration acted within the authority granted by Congress.
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