States and cities sue over ‘public charge’ green card restrictions

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Today's Top Stories - September 14, 2026

Today's Top Stories - September 14, 2026

A coalition of Democratic-led states and Washington, D.C., are suing the Trump administration to block a rule that makes it harder for immigrants to obtain green cards or even enter the country if they rely on public benefits. 

The 22 states and D.C. are challenging the Department of Homeland Security’s (DHS) “public charge” rule, set to take effect Friday.   

The states, led by New York Attorney General Letitia James (D), argue the rule will penalize immigrants and their families for using public benefits like food stamps, Medicaid or housing vouchers to which they are legally entitled. 

“Hardworking families should not be forced to go without the support they need because they fear asking for assistance will get them deported,” James said in a statement. “This rule preys on that fear and counts on families forfeiting the food assistance, health care coverage, and other public benefits to which they are legally entitled.” 

The lawsuit argues that under the rule, immigrants would need to stop using public assistance programs to meet their basic needs or risk being........

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