HHS Bans Undocumented Immigrants From Federal Benefits Programs

The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), under Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., has rescinded a 1998 interpretation of the Personal Responsibility and Work Opportunity Reconciliation Act of 1996 that had allowed undocumented immigrants access to certain federal public benefits. This policy change prohibits illegal immigrants from receiving taxpayer-funded programs such as Head Start, mental health services, and community health grants, aiming to restore resources for American citizens and enforce the rule of law. HHS estimates that this shift could free up hundreds of millions of dollars annually, potentially increasing services for eligible U.S. citizens by up to $374 million. While the administration emphasizes protecting resources for Americans, critics, including the National Head Start Association, warn that the change will create fear and confusion among families and undermine commitments to children. The updated policy clarifies that no programs are exempt from the restrictions, and benefits for noncitizens remain limited to emergency and select state-funded services. Supporters argue the move is necessary to prevent incentivizing illegal immigration and to prioritize American taxpayers' interests amid growing national debt.