Wisconsin Department of Justice · October 24, 2026 · Primary source
Wisconsin DOJ Sues to Block Trump Administration's Public Charge Rule
Summary
A 23-state coalition joined by Wisconsin filed suit on September 14, 2026, in the Southern District of New York to block a new DHS public charge rule taking effect September 18, 2026, which would allow immigration officers to count nearly any means-tested public benefit used by an applicant or supported family members against a green card application. DHS's own estimates project the rule would reduce federal Medicaid and CHIP transfer payments to states by approximately $4.05 billion annually and SNAP payments by approximately $1.02 billion annually due to anticipated disenrollment. The coalition argues the rule is arbitrary and capricious, exceeds DHS's statutory authority, and departs from the longstanding congressional meaning of public charge.
What this may mean
The projected $4.05 billion annual reduction in federal Medicaid and CHIP transfer payments, driven by immigrant family disenrollment, would directly reduce state Medicaid program revenues and the patient volumes at safety-net providers, including FQHCs and critical access hospitals, that serve Medicaid-dependent populations. Hospitals and community health centers face anticipated increases in uncompensated emergency care as immigrant families disenroll from Medicaid and delay preventive care. The APA challenge, if successful, would vacate the rule and prevent the enrollment drop.
Informational only. Not legal, medical, financial, or other professional advice. Always consult a qualified professional familiar with your specific facts before relying on any item.
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