Judge blocks policy to deny visas to immigrants who cannot afford health care

A judge has blocked the State Department’s new policy of denying visas to immigrants who cannot afford health care. The lawsuit, brought by Stephen Manning of Portland’s Innovation Law Lab, Karen Tumlin, and other immigration advocates, stops a new rule from going into effect Sunday November 3.

Judge Simon issued a nationwide temporary restraining order preventing the government from carrying out a proclamation by President Trump. Mr. Trump’s Oct. 4 proclamation ordered consular officers to bar immigrants who could not prove they had health insurance or the ability to pay for medical costs once they become permanent residents of the United States.

It is separate from the public charge rule, also blocked by an injunction, and was projected to have an impact on an even larger number of immigrants seeking entry. 

MHC