32BJ Condemns “Public Charge” Rule as Assault on Immigrants’ Well-Being and Nation’s Diversity

The following statement may be attributed to Kevin Brown, Vice President and NJ State Director of 32BJ SEIU: 

“The public charge rule that the Trump administration released today assaults the ability of taxpaying, legal immigrants to protect their health and feed their children by punishing them for accessing the most basic benefits needed to survive. If this final rule becomes law in 60 days, it could force new American families to forego healthcare, go hungry, or become homeless in order to secure a future in America for themselves or their families. Furthermore, the rule wildly extends the definition of those who would “likely” become a “public charge,” thereby severely restricting legal immigration. The change could affect any potential immigrant without a college degree or with a low credit score, among many other constraints. As one of the nation’s largest unions with majority immigrant membership, we support our allies who are already challenging this reprehensible rule in court, so that black, brown and white immigrants will continue to receive equal treatment, and immigrants aren’t forced to choose between a green card and basic survival.”

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With over 175,000 members in 11 states, 32BJ SEIU is the largest property services union in the country.