A recent ruling by a federal judge in North Dakota has sparked controversy over the enrollment of “Dreamers” in Affordable Care Act (ACA) coverage. The ruling, in favor of 19 states, challenges a Biden administration rule that allowed individuals brought to the U.S. as children without immigration paperwork to enroll in ACA plans for the first time.
This decision impacts individuals who qualify for the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program in the 19 states involved, preventing them from enrolling in or receiving subsidies for ACA plans. However, this ruling does not affect enrollment or coverage in other states, according to legal experts following the case.
The Biden administration is expected to appeal the ruling, although the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services declined to comment on the ongoing litigation. The outcome of the appeal may not be determined before the new administration takes office, potentially leading to a shift in the government’s position on the matter.
Uncertainty remains regarding the coverage of Dreamer enrollees in the 19 states affected by the ruling, especially for those whose coverage has already begun or is set to start soon. The ruling does not specify whether it applies retroactively, leaving the future of these individuals in limbo.
The legal dispute originated in August when the case was filed in U.S. District Court for the District of North Dakota. The ruling, issued by U.S District Judge Daniel Traynor, highlighted concerns raised by the plaintiffs about the potential administrative and resource burdens associated with increased enrollment under the ACA rule.
Despite the ruling, advocates for DACA recipients emphasize the importance of access to healthcare for this vulnerable population. DACA, established in 2012 by President Barack Obama, offers protection from deportation and work authorization to individuals brought to the U.S. as children by their families, under specific criteria.
While the legal battle continues, states across the country remain divided on the issue. Some states have voiced support for the Biden administration’s rule, while others, including Alabama, Texas, and Virginia, have joined the lawsuit against it. The outcome of this legal dispute will have far-reaching implications for DACA recipients seeking access to essential healthcare services.
