Federal Judge Blocks Health Coverage for Dreamers

A federal judge in North Dakota, Dan Traynor, has temporarily blocked a Biden administration rule that would have allowed 'Dreamers'—undocumented immigrants brought to the U.S. as children—to access health insurance through the Affordable Care Act (ACA) in 19 states. The ruling came in response to a lawsuit by Republican attorneys general, who argued that the ACA and previous laws prohibit public benefits for undocumented residents, potentially incentivizing illegal immigration. The decision affects approximately 147,000 immigrants who were set to enroll starting January 1, 2025. The Obama-era rule aimed to classify DACA recipients as 'lawfully present,' enabling them to receive ACA benefits. The Biden administration is expected to appeal the ruling, but a final decision may not occur before the incoming Trump administration takes office. This legal battle raises concerns for Dreamers in the affected states, who now face uncertainty regarding their health coverage options.