A recent announcement from the Biden administration heralds a significant development for over 100,000 young immigrants protected under the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program. This new federal rule marks a milestone, granting DACA recipients eligibility for federal health care coverage, a long-awaited provision since DACA’s inception over ten years ago.
Under this ruling, DACA beneficiaries will gain access to enrollment in qualified health plans through the Affordable Care Act’s insurance marketplace, or alternatively, they can qualify for coverage through a basic health program.
The DACA program has provided a sense of security for approximately 580,000 young adults who arrived in the U.S. as children without legal immigration status. Predominantly from Mexico and other Latin American nations, these individuals have been able to pursue work and education opportunities without the constant fear of deportation. However, despite their contributions through billions in federal taxes, they were previously excluded from federally funded health insurance.
While some DACA recipients have obtained health insurance through employment, a significant portion—more than a quarter—are currently uninsured.
The expansion of the definition of “lawful presence” to encompass DACA recipients signifies a pivotal shift. Health and Human Services Secretary Xavier Becerra emphasized that this change ensures they are no longer excluded from accessing quality health plans and financial assistance. With over 100,000 uninsured young immigrants expected to benefit from this ruling, it promises to address the stark reality: DACA recipients are three times more likely to be uninsured compared to the general population.
This expansion does not extend to Medicaid eligibility, but it does facilitate coverage through the Affordable Care Act and its associated marketplaces and financial aid programs.
Scheduled to take effect on November 1, coinciding with the open enrollment period for 2025 health insurance plans under the Affordable Care Act, this announcement signifies a step forward in providing timely access to federal health care for newly eligible DACA recipients.
The unveiling of this rule follows President Biden’s commitment, announced a year ago, to broaden healthcare coverage for DACA recipients. While the initial plan aimed for implementation by November 2023, the reasons for the delay remain undisclosed.
Nonetheless, White House domestic policy adviser Neera Tanden underscored President Biden’s ongoing advocacy for DACA recipients, emphasizing that only congressional action can secure them permanent status and a pathway to citizenship.
