Rescinding DACA is a Health Care Catastrophe for California

Health Access California stands in solidarity with our allies in the immigrant rights movement in opposition to the Trump Administration’s decision to rescind the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program, threatening 800,000 youth and young adults with deportation. The Trump Administration’s ongoing assault on immigrants and communities of color is cruel, counterproductive, and contrary to the values of our state and our nation.

DACA was fought for and won by Dreamers who organized and campaigned for this program. Their fierce determination and resilience was also instrumental in winning #Health4AllKids in California, which has allowed 185,000 children, regardless of immigration status, to get full-scope Medi-Cal coverage. California also covers all income-eligible DACA immigrants in our Medi-Cal program.

Our health is inextricably linked to the ability to live without fear of being deported or separated from our loved ones. The Trump Administration’s actions pushes families into hiding and discourages people from getting the health care they need, which then hinders public health efforts.

Immigrants are a critical part of our nation’s history and society, and our health system is stronger when everyone is included. We urge our California Congressional delegation, including Majority Leader Kevin McCarthy, to immediately pass the bipartisan Dream Act of 2017. We also urge Congress to enact comprehensive immigration reform and work to strengthen and stabilize our health care system.