Elmont, NY – Today, Assemblymember Michaelle C. Solages issued the following statement regarding the Department of Homeland Security’s public charge rule that goes into effect as of February 24, 2020:

“The federal administration continues to shove their agenda of family separation through the courts. Forcing people to choose between medical care or potential deportation is callous and incredibly short-sighted. Communities begin to fail when people fear accessing the services that tend to their basic healthcare needs. It is apparent that this is part of a continued effort by one party to disincentivize the use of public programs by any means necessary.

Unlike the current administration, New York is a proponent of creating opportunities and equitable starts for all who may seek them. A vital part of that process is ensuring access to affordable and high-quality healthcare. We understand that a strong healthcare system will encourage all individuals to stay healthy and help mitigate chronic diseases and illnesses throughout our communities.

Now more than ever, we need a Congress that is willing to address the complex issues of our broken immigration system head-on. I will continue to support my fellow New Yorkers as they face unprecedented attacks from the current administration.”