Judge Blocks ACA Coverage for DACA in 19 States

A federal judge in North Dakota has temporarily blocked a Biden administration rule allowing Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) recipients, also known as 'Dreamers,' to access health insurance through the Affordable Care Act (ACA) across 19 states. Judge Daniel Traynor issued the ruling following a lawsuit by a coalition of Republican attorneys general, who argued that the rule violated federal law by providing benefits to immigrants not lawfully present in the U.S. The attorneys general contended that the rule incentivizes illegal immigration and imposes financial burdens on states. Kansas Attorney General Kris Kobach, leading the coalition, celebrated the decision as a victory for the rule of law. This injunction will remain until a final legal decision is made, affecting DACA recipients in the states involved in the lawsuit.