San Francisco, Santa Clara counties file first lawsuit over Trump 'public charge' rule

The Hill reports that San Francisco and Santa Clara, which also sued to challenge the Trump administration's attempt to de-fund "sanctuary" cities, yesterday filed the first lawsuit against the Trump administration's new "public charge" rule that allows the government to deny admission and lawful permanent residence to noncitizens who have used public programs.  The counties seek a temporary injunction in the District Court for the Northern District of California.

The counties allege the rule change hurts "critical public health and safety-net systems, is arbitrary and capricious, flouts federal law, and seeks to usurp Congress’ authority by administratively repealing its longstanding family-based immigration system." The plaintiffs allege that the projected drop in noncitizens using public services as a result of the new rule will “increase risks to the public health.”

Here is the Complaint in the case. Download Filed_Complaint.01 (2).

KJ