Democratic attorneys general fight for Dreamers' health care access

In the United States, a group of Democratic state attorneys general filed a request in U.S. District Court in Bismarck, North Dakota, to intervene in a legal case concerning health care access for young immigrants known as Dreamers. This action occurred on a Wednesday and is a strategic move in anticipation of potential policy changes under President-elect Donald Trump’s administration, which is expected to take office shortly thereafter. The Democratic attorneys general are motivated by concerns that the incoming administration will not defend the current federal policy allowing these young immigrants to access subsidized health care. New Jersey Attorney General Matthew Platkin is spearheading this effort, along with support from 14 other Democratic attorneys general. They argue that depriving Dreamers of health coverage not only affects these individuals and their American-born children but also imposes significant burdens on states like New Jersey, which may experience increased health costs. Platkin emphasized their commitment to fighting for Dreamers’ rights to healthcare, regardless of the political landscape in Washington. Historically, states have often taken legal action against federal policies, particularly when transitions between opposing political parties occur. This case represents the beginning of anticipated legal conflict as the presidency shifts from Democratic leadership to Republican control. If the court permits the Democratic attorneys general to intervene, it could lead to divisive legal battles between states governed by Democrats and those with Republican leadership. Concurrently, a group of 19 Republican attorneys general has brought a lawsuit against the federal regulation designed to provide health coverage for an estimated 147,000 Dreamers through the Affordable Care Act’s public marketplace. The Republican lawsuit argues that the Affordable Care Act and existing laws prohibit government benefits from being extended to immigrants residing in the U.S. illegally. Already, a federal judge has ruled that Dreamers are temporarily ineligible for this health coverage while legal proceedings advance in the courts. This situation illustrates the ongoing tension surrounding immigration policy, specifically the fate of Dreamers who have been granted a low priority for deportation under previous administrations. Although President Trump’s approach to the program has fluctuated, his administration has signaled intentions to pursue more stringent immigration enforcement measures. Thus, the Democratic attorneys general’s action is framed against a backdrop of uncertainty regarding the future of health coverage for these individuals, highlighting the continued debate on immigration and healthcare policy in America.