Bonta offers resolution opposing Trump’s latest attack on immigrants

A Trump administration proposed rule change that would greatly affect immigrants in California and elsewhere is being met by opposition from East Bay Assemblymember Rob Bonta, and other Alameda County officials.

On the first day of the new legislative calendar Tuesday Bonta offered a concurrent resolution condemning the Trump administration’s proposal to change the definition of a “public charge.”

If approved, the change could deny permanent residency to immigrants and even
mean deportation for immigrants who access federal aid such as Medicaid, Section 8 housing subsidies, and food stamps, among other programs.

“The proposed change to public charge by this President is another blatant attack on immigrant communities,” said Bonta. “It’s fueled by racism, classism, and xenophobia. That’s why I’m introducing a resolution calling on the federal government to stop this dangerous proposal that would cause significant harm to an untold number of immigrants trying to realize their own American dream.”

The change would also greatly affect children, many of whom risk losing health insurance.

Bonta fears the proposed change will dissuade immigrants from applying for public assistance. The change would also greatly affect children, many of whom risk losing health insurance. The children of non-citizens are eligible to receive Medicaid under current rules.

A public comment period on the proposed rules change ends next Monday, Dec. 10, and the push back in the East Bay toward the Trump administration’s plan has not only been from Bonta, but from the Alameda County Board of Supervisors, and Rep. Barbara Lee.

Alameda County Supervisor Wilma Chan held a town hall last month about the proposed rule change and its ramifications for the county’s immigrant population. Like Bonta, Chan urged opponents to offer an official public comment with the administration.

“Alameda County has a proud tradition of inclusion and diversity–-one that is inconsistent with the current Administration’s continued hostility towards immigrants residing lawfully in this country,” said Chan. “This represents an important opportunity to reject the politics of fear and division by standing with our immigrant communities and voicing our opposition to this malicious regulatory change.”