DHS Moves to Weigh Welfare Use in Green Card Decisions

The Department of Homeland Security plans to factor an immigrant's use of public welfare benefits into decisions on whether to grant a green card. The policy revives a 'public charge' standard aimed at prioritizing applicants deemed self-sufficient and less likely to rely on government assistance. Supporters frame it as sound stewardship of taxpayer resources, while critics argue it will penalize working families and deter eligible immigrants from seeking aid.