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'Dreamers' shut out of the health care marketplace in 19 states for now, judge rules

A federal judge in Texas has ruled that individuals protected under the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program, known as "Dreamers," are not eligible for health insurance through the Affordable Care Act (ACA) marketplaces in 19 states involved in a lawsuit against the program. U.S. District Judge Reed O'Connor's decision stems from a broader challenge to the DACA program's legality, asserting that since DACA recipients are not lawfully present under federal immigration law, they should not receive benefits like health insurance subsidies. This ruling, which could affect approximately 108,000 Dreamers in these states, does not immediately strip them of their current insurance but prevents new enrollments or renewals. The decision has sparked concerns about the health and financial well-being of these immigrants, with advocates and some politicians criticizing the move as harsh and potentially detrimental to public health. The case is part of ongoing legal battles over the DACA program, with its future still uncertain as it awaits a Supreme Court decision.

Read the Full PBS Article at:
[ https://www.pbs.org/newshour/politics/dreamers-shut-out-of-the-health-care-marketplace-in-19-states-for-now-judge-rules ]