As pediatricians, public health researchers, and child health and policy experts, Children’s HealthWatch opposes in the strongest terms changes to the public charge rule made by the Department of Homeland Security. These changes will endanger the health and well-being of families of immigrants and their children.

We are deeply alarmed by efforts to penalize participation of families with children in evidence-based programs with demonstrated positive health and developmental outcomes. Our scientific research and that of others have repeatedly shown that children thrive when their families have the resources to keep them safe, healthy, well-fed, and stably housed. Ensuring that everyone in our communities has their basic needs met provides the fundamental building blocks of a healthy, prosperous America.