Statement on the Supreme Court’s Decision Allowing Inhumane Public Charge Rule to Take Effect

January 27, 2020

SACRAMENTO – Jodi Hicks, President and CEO of Planned Parenthood Affiliates of California, issued the following statement in response to U.S. Supreme Court’s 5-4 decision allowing the Trump Administration’s “Public Charge Rule” to take effect and make it easier to block immigrants from receiving critical public health benefits.

 

“Planned Parenthood is hugely disappointed in today’s Supreme Court decision that allows the cruel and inhumane public charge rule to be implemented. No one’s health should be compromised because of their immigration status or their income. This rule contributes to immigrants’ already very real fear of deportation and family separation and continues to drive more and more people into the shadows — making it harder to work, access health care, and live a full life.

“California has worked hard to protect our immigrant communities, and the public charge rule will undermine those protections. It is vital that our patients and their families continue to access medical care and other social services without fear of adverse immigration consequences.

“As a leading health care provider in a state with more than a quarter of immigrant residents, Planned Parenthood health centers in California are proud to continue to provide care for patients regardless of their immigration status. No matter what.”

 

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Planned Parenthood Affiliates of California (PPAC) is the state public policy office representing California’s seven separately incorporated Planned Parenthood affiliates. Through advocacy and electoral action, PPAC promotes sound public policy in areas of sexual and reproductive health care and sex education.