Planned Parenthood Denounces Supreme Court’s “Public Charge” Ruling 

Supreme Court Allows Trump Administration to Punish Immigrants Who Access Health Care and Other Basic Care

WASHINGTON — The Supreme Court furthered the Trump-Pence administration's discriminatory and cruel attacks against immigrants yesterday by allowing its final “public charge” rule to go into effect. Under the rule, people may be denied entry into the U.S. or an adjustment in their immigration status (i.e. obtaining a green card), simply because they have received certain public benefits in the past — including health care, nutrition assistance, and public housing — or are judged likely to use benefits in the future. It is designed to keep families separated, and to scare immigrants already in the U.S. from accessing health care and other basic needs. Already, immigrant families have avoided basic care and benefits, to which they are legally entitled, out of fear of retaliation from the administration. 

Statement from Alexis McGill Johnson, Acting President and CEO, Planned Parenthood Action Fund:

“It’s deeply disturbing that the Supreme Court would allow such a heartless and inhumane policy from the Trump-Pence administration to move forward. This policy will harm immigrants’ abilities to protect themselves and their families, driving more and more people into the shadows. It serves no other purpose than to undermine the health and rights of immigrant communities and to let the administration restrict who can be a part of our nation. At Planned Parenthood, we believe that health care has no borders, and that no one’s health or safety should be at risk because of their immigration status. Our doors are open and we will continue working with partners to ensure that no one should have to choose between getting the health care they need or protecting their loved one’s immigration status.”

The Supreme Court’s 5-4 decision comes on the heels of other attacks on immigrants by this administration, such as banning pregnant women from entering the U.S.; ripping millions of families apart by rescinding DACA (Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals) and ending TPS (temporary protected status) for several countries; the physical separation of children from their parents at the U.S.-Mexico border; the rollback of parental rights for parents involved in immigration proceedings; and increased enforcement of detention and deportation. 

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Planned Parenthood is the nation’s leading provider and advocate of high-quality, affordable health care for women, men, and young people, as well as the nation’s largest provider of sex education. With more than 600 health centers across the country, Planned Parenthood organizations serve all patients with care and compassion, with respect and without judgment. Through health centers, programs in schools and communities, and online resources, Planned Parenthood is a trusted source of reliable health information that allows people to make informed health decisions. We do all this because we care passionately about helping people lead healthier lives.