Congresswoman Sylvia Garcia Applauds President Biden on Expanding Health Coverage to DACA Recipients

Houston, Texas —Today, President Biden has empowered DACA recipients by expanding their access to affordable healthcare. The Biden-Harris Administration's commitment to providing Dreamers with the opportunities and support they need to succeed is now a reality. This significant increase in healthcare access not only improves the health and well-being of DACA recipients but also contributes to building healthier and more vibrant communities.

"I have been fighting for our Dreamers since before I came to Congress, and I commend the Biden Administration for taking this critical step in expanding access to the Affordable Care Act to include DACA recipients. Throughout the COVID pandemic, we saw our Dreamers serve on the front lines in hospitals, clinics, and beyond. Illness does not discriminate on the basis of immigration status, and today’s rule change will save lives. As the lead of the Bipartisan American Dream and Promise Act, I applaud President Biden’s commitment to protecting Dreamers as we continue to fight for a pathway citizenship. Today’s victory is one more step in ensuring that DACA recipients are here to stay.” said Congresswoman Sylvia Garcia

“I’m proud of the contributions of Dreamers to our country and committed to providing Dreamers the support they need to succeed. That’s why I’ve previously directed the Department of Homeland Security to take all appropriate actions to “preserve and fortify” DACA. And that’s why today we are taking this historic step to ensure that DACA recipients have the same access to health care through the Affordable Care Act as their neighbors,” said President Joe Biden. 

Under the new rule, DACA recipients can apply for coverage through the Health Insurance Marketplace, where they may qualify for financial assistance based on income, and through their state Medicaid agency.  Like all other enrollees, eligibility information will be verified electronically when individuals apply for coverage.

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Congresswoman Sylvia R. Garcia was elected to the U.S. House of Representatives in November 2018, becoming the first Latina ever to represent the Texas 29th Congressional District. She is the Vice Ranking Member of the House Financial Services Committee, the Vice Chair on Housing and Transportation of the House Democratic Caucus Poverty Task Force, and a member of the Select Subcommittee on the Weaponization of the Federal Government