WHAT THEY ARE SAYING: Members of Congress, Local Leaders, Immigration Advocates and More Celebrate the Biden Administration’s Expansion of the Affordable Care Act to DACA Recipients

Yesterday, President Biden announced a plan to expand health coverage for DACA recipients. If finalized, the rule would allow DACA recipients to enroll in Medicaid, the Children’s Health Insurance Programs, and the Affordable Care Act’s Health Insurance Marketplaces, where they may qualify for financial assistance based on income, and through their state Medicaid agency. 

President Biden believes that DACA recipients strengthen our economy and enrich our workplaces, our schools and communities, and our country as a whole. That’s why on his first day in office, he called on Congress to give Dreamers a pathway to citizenship and he has repeated that call in every State of the Union address since. 

While Congress has failed to act, the Biden-Harris Administration has taken significant measures to protect Dreamers.  

See below for what they are saying:

Congressional Leaders

Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer: “Dreamers deserve access to health coverage in the only country they call home. I applaud President Biden for this highly impactful policy change that will improve the lives of so many!” [Tweet, 4/13/23]

Senate Majority Whip Dick Durbin: “DACA holders are American in every way but their paperwork and are an important part of our nation & our economy. Extending ACA health insurance options to them is humane and simply common sense. Congress’ decades long failure to do the right thing for Dreamers is inexcusable.” [Tweet, 4/13/23]  

Senator Bob Menendez: “I’m glad to see the Biden Administration taking steps to recognize that DACA recipients have been waiting for over decade for Republicans to come to the table to give them a path to citizenship.” [Tweet, 4/13/23] 

Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi: “Our Dreamers enrich their communities and make America more American. As Democrats fight for a pathway to citizenship for Dreamers, we commend President Biden for ensuring their access to quality, affordable health care.” [Tweet, 4/13/23]

Democratic Caucus Chair Pete Aguilar: “The @HispanicCaucus has long fought for this, and today, the Biden-Harris Administration is taking a life-changing step forward for DACA recipients, who deserve access to good health care in the only country they call home.” [Tweet, 4/13/23] 

Congressional Hispanic Caucus Chair and California U.S. Rep. Nanette Barragan: “Thank you @POTUS for listening, hearing us, & delivering! And thank you to the DACA recipients & advocates who have fought for years to simply have access to the healthcare they deserve. A huge step forward for our communities!” [Tweet, 4/13/23] 

Congressional Hispanic Caucus: “Today, we applaud President Biden’s decision to provide more equitable access to health care to hundreds-of-thousands of Latinos in our communities and throughout the country. This decision also marks a significant accomplishment for the CHC. This change in policy has been a priority for the CHC and we have pushed multiple Administrations to provide access to quality, affordable, health care for DACA recipients. This morning, the hard work of the CHC, our members, and DACA recipients and advocates has paid off. The change CHC fought for is finally underway. As a result of this change, approximately 600,000 DACA recipients and their U.S. citizen children will be able to secure and purchase health insurance through the ACA. Access to ACA and Medicaid benefits will allow a significant number of Latinos to improve their quality of life, obtain affordable, quality health care, and make way for a healthier future for our communities. We thank the Biden-Harris Administration for their commitment to Latino communities who have historically been disadvantaged when it comes to accessing health care. We also ask the Department of Health and Human Services to act with urgency and implement the changes as soon as possible so that DACA recipients can quickly access the benefits that – as taxpayers – they have earned.” [Statement, 4/13/23]

Senator Michael Bennet: “I applaud the Biden administration’s plan to expand health coverage for DACA recipients. For many Dreamers, America is the only country they know as home. They deserve the same opportunities and support as everyone else.” [Tweet, 4/13/23]

Senator Cory Booker: “Expanding health care coverage to DACA Recipients is the right thing to do. I applaud the Biden administration for acting on our letter last fall calling for this expansion.” [Tweet, 4/13/23] 

Senator Catherine Cortez Masto: “I have been working with the Biden administration to open health care exchanges to DACA recipients, and I’m pleased to see this effort pay off today. For many DACA recipients, America is the only home they’ve ever known – and I will always stand up to support and protect them.” [Tweet, 4/13/23] 

Senator Jacky Rosen: “Dreamers are vital members of our community, and they deserve the same access to affordable, quality health care as everyone else. I applaud this announcement, which will allow thousands of DACA recipients living in Nevada to receive affordable health care.” [Tweet, 4/13/23] 

Senator Tina Smith: “BREAKING: President Biden is expanding health insurance coverage to DACA recipients! Millions of Dreamers have called our country home since they were too young to remember anywhere else. They deserve EVERY opportunity to succeed and live a healthy life here in America.” [Tweet, 4/13/23]  

Senator Alex Padilla: “Everybody deserves access to affordable and reliable health care—including immigrants. Today’s announcement from the White House is a huge win for DACA recipients. Thank you for taking action, @POTUS.” [Tweet, 4/13/23]

Rep. Joaquin Castro: “Since the beginning of the Biden administration, I’ve been pushing HHS to extend ACA, Medicaid, and CHIP access to DACA recipients who were unfairly excluded. Today, the administration announced that DACA recipients will soon be eligible for the same care as their neighbors.” [Tweet, 4/13/23] 

Rep. Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick: “This is a huge win & the first immigration action from our 2023 CPC Executive Action Agenda!” [Tweet, 4/13/23]

Rep. Judy Chu: “Ecstatic at today’s @POTUS announcement that @HHSGov will extend Medicaid and Affordable Care Act coverage to #DACA recipients. This is life changing and in some cases lifesaving for Dreamers who deserve health care like everyone else in America!” [Tweet, 4/13/23] 

Rep. Yvette Clarke: “Thank you, @POTUS. Healthcare is a human right. Extending the ACA’s health insurance options to lifelong Americans is a commonsense decision that Congress has a responsibility to follow with a pathway to citizenship. It’s what Dreamers deserve!” [Tweet, 4/13/23]

Rep. Emanuel Cleaver: “All of our neighbors deserve affordable healthcare, including Dreamers who contribute so much to our communities. Thankful to @POTUS for taking this step. Now, let’s continue working to pass the American Dream and Promise Act into law!” [Tweet, 4/13/23]

Rep. Adriano Espaillat: “I commend @POTUS for expanding health coverage for DACA recipients. Dreamers are integral to our communities and economy. We must ensure they are able to live healthy and enriched lives as they continue to make our communities and nation a more vibrant place for all.” [Tweet, 4/13/23] 

Rep. Ruben Gallego: “Last year, I pushed the Biden Admin. to make ACA, Medicaid, and CHIP accessible to DACA recipients who have been unfairly excluded. Today, we are one step closer to making that a reality. Next up: Comprehensive immigration reform that finally fixes our deeply broken system.” [Tweet, 4/13/23] 

Rep. John Garamendi: “#Dreamers are American in every way but on paper. They are neighbors, colleagues, family, and friends who enrich our nation. Today, @POTUS took historic action to expand healthcare coverage for #DACA recipients. I applaud him for his leadership. Healthcare is a right, not a privilege. Democrats in Congress and the Biden Administration understand this, and today’s announcement will improve the health outcomes for Dreamers and provide much-needed comfort and security as we continue pursuing a pathway to citizenship.” [Tweet Tweet, 4/13/23]  

Rep. Chuy Garcia: “This is a victory hard won by activists and our communities. It will save lives and ensure DACA recipients have access to care. But we know that DACA is still under attack. We must keep doing all we can to fight for a pathway to citizenship for all immigrant communities.” [Tweet, 4/13/23]  

Rep Raul Grijalva: “I’ve long said illness does not discriminate on the basis of documentation. Now, thanks to @POTUS , thousands of young aspiring Americans will now be able to obtain health care. This decision is a moral victory and the right one by the Biden administration.” [Tweet, 4/13/23]

Rep. Pramila Jayapal: “Health care is a human right, and DACA recipients deserve access to that care just like everyone else. Glad to see the Biden Administration move to provide coverage to them and take a long overdue step toward justice.” [Tweet, 4/13/23]  

Rep. Gregory Meeks: “The @POTUS‘ announcement today is a step toward providing DACA recipients with the opportunities and support they need to excel. Health care should be a right, not a privilege.” [Tweet, 4/13/23] 

Rep. Delia Ramirez: “Good news for Dreamers! @POTUS announced @HHSGov will put forth a proposed rule to expand health coverage for #DACA recipients. We have more to do for Dreamers and the broader immigrant community — this is a great next step!” [Tweet, 4/13/23]

Rep. Raul Ruiz: “I applaud @POTUS ‘s action to expand health care access to Dreamers under #ACA. Dreamers are professionals & essential workers who create jobs, contribute to our economy, serve in our military, & protect our health. Their health & contributions are important to me and our nation.” [Tweet, 4/13/23]

Rep. Linda Sanchez: “For millions of Dreamers, the United States is the only home they’ve ever known. And they have made this country a better place every single day they’ve lived here. I applaud @POTUS for making sure they have access to health coverage. Next stop: citizenship.” [Tweet, 4/13/23]

Rep. Jan Schakowsky: “Health care is a human right. I’m thrilled the Biden administration has taken this momentous step to support our Dreamers. This is an effort I have been a longtime advocate for in Congress. Next stop: a pathway to citizenship!” [Tweet, 4/13/23]

Rep. Adam Schiff: “President Biden’s plan to expand health care for Dreamers is crucial. By offering comprehensive coverage to DACA recipients, we can help bridge the healthcare disparities gap. No one should go without quality, affordable health care in our country.” [Twitter, 4/13/23] 

Rep. Adam Smith: “I applaud this action by the Biden Administration to expand health care coverage for DACA recipients. Health care is a basic human right and should be accessible and affordable for all.” [Tweet, 4/13/23] 

Rep. Dina Titus: “DACA recipients are our friends, neighbors, and colleagues. They deserve a shot at the American dream and access to quality health care. The Administration’s action today is the right one.” [Tweet, 4/13/23] 

Rep. Ritchie Torres: “Thank you @POTUS for expanding health coverage for DACA recipients. Health care is a human right — not a privilege. And by extending coverage to thousands of Dreamers, we can help them live healthier, fuller lives as they continue to greatly enrich our vibrant communities.” [Tweet, 4/13/23]  

Rep. Nydia Velazquez: “Dreamers are our friends, neighbors, and colleagues. They pay billions of $ a year in taxes and have the same right to healthcare as every other American. I applaud @POTUS for this announcement, which will ensure that 100s of thousands of #DACA recipients can access healthcare.” [Tweet, 4/13/23] 

Congressional Progressive Caucus: “NEWS: @POTUS just announced plans to grant health insurance coverage eligibility to DACA recipients. This is a long overdue step for immigrant justice. It’s also the first immigrant-focused action the Biden administration has taken from our 2023 CPC Executive Action Agenda.” [Tweet, 4/13/23]

State and Local Leaders

California Governor Gavin Newsom: “President Biden is stepping up to ensure greater access to health care for DACA recipients – who contribute greatly to our country – building on California’s leadership. Today’s news is a victory for the over 200,000 DACA recipients who call California home. However, it is crucial for Republicans in Congress to take action and finally create a meaningful pathway to citizenship. California is stronger and more vibrant because of our diversity, and we believe all residents should have access to high-quality health care, regardless of age, income, or immigration status, the fiscally sound move and it leads to better health outcomes and quality of life.” [Statement, 4/13/23]

California Governor Gavin Newsom: “In California, we believe that all residents should have access to high-quality health care, regardless of age, income, or immigration status. We applaud @POTUS‘ commitment to ensuring greater access to health care – building on California’s leadership.” [Tweet, 4/13/23]

California State Senator Maria Elena Durazo: “Although DACA recipients legally work and pay taxes in the U.S.A., they have been denied health insurance benefits for far too long. Biden to expand DACA immigrants’ access to health plans, officials say” [Tweet, 4/13/23] 

Chicago Mayor Lori Lightfoot: “I applaud the Biden administration for their continued support of DACA recipients by expanding resources that will protect their health & well-being, & providing them the same opportunity others have to access medical care. Chicago is home to thousands of DACA recipients & Dreamers. They are essential workers, teachers, civic leaders, & small business owners, all of whom have built a home & planted roots in our great City. I join President Biden’s urgent call to Congress to work together to provide a pathway to citizenship for Dreamers, & I will continue to advocate for comprehensive immigration reform.” [Tweet, 4/13/23]

Illinois Governor JB Pritzker: “Great news from @POTUS! Health care is a right for everyone, no matter their immigration status. I’m celebrating this life-changing policy with Dreamers whose only home they’ve known is the US. Just like this nation welcomed my immigrant great-grandfather, Illinois welcomes you.” [Tweet, 4/13/23]

Los Angeles, California County Supervisor Hilda Solis: “DACA recipients deserve access to quality and affordable healthcare. I commend @POTUS for continuing to stand for what is right and extending this human right to Dreamers. Here in @CountyofLA, we will continue to do our part to ensure all residents, regardless of where they’re from, have access to the lifesaving care they need. (2/2)” [Twitter Thread, 4/13/23] 

Maryland Governor Wes Moore: “I want to applaud the Biden Administration for their efforts to protect Dreamers in our country. Having come from a family of immigrants, this is a deeply personal issue for me. Pres. Biden has time and time again shown his commitment to protecting this community. Now, healthcare options will now be expanded for over 7,000 Marylanders who are current DACA recipients, making them eligible for Medicaid & Affordable Care Act coverage for the first time. This proposal will have a significant impact on the lives of so many Marylanders and dreamers across the country.” [Twitter Thread, 4/13/23] 

National Hispanic Caucus of State Legislators (NHCSL): “Dreamers are Americans. They deserve access to health and a pathway to citizenship. At the request of Senator @SANDRISCANO our Healthcare Task Force is expected to pass an Emergency Resolution today supporting President Biden’s proposed rule. @almaforarizona @NYSenatorRivera” [Tweet, 4/13/23]

New York City Mayor Eric Adams: “We applaud @POTUS for taking this step. In NYC, this means 30,000+ DACA recipients eligible for affordable health care coverage can take care of their physical health and have peace of mind. Let’s get this done!” [Tweet, 4/13/23] 

New York Attorney General Tish James: “@POTUS is right, health care should be a right, not a privilege, and that includes DACA recipients. This is a big deal, and I’m grateful this administration is fighting to give DACA recipients the rights they deserve.” [Tweet, 4/13/23] 

New York Governor Kathy Hochul: “Immigrant communities make our state stronger, and in New York, we’ve made sure our Dreamers can access quality affordable health care. Thank you @POTUS for taking this major step to build on our progress — providing the same support and stability to Dreamers nationwide.” [Tweet, 4/13/23] 

Immigration Advocates and Advocacy Organizations 

Greisa Martinez, Executive Director, United We Dream: “BIG NEWS!! Years in the making! This is a testament to the power of steadfast organizing people & votes and staying ready to govern. Join @UNITEDWEDREAM⁩ as we continue to organize for the freedom to thrive.” [Tweet, 4/13/23]

FWD.us “Thank you, @POTUS, for taking this step! Once in effect this proposed rule will allow DACA recipients to access vital healthcare services and stay healthy and care for their loved ones, all while continuing to contribute to our economy and communities.” [Tweet, 4/13/23]

Maria Praeli, Deputy Director of Government Relations & Coalitions, FWD.us: “Today’s announcement from President Biden is welcome news and an important step to ensure that hundreds of thousands of DACA recipients like me can access vital healthcare services via the Affordable Care Act and Medicare. Once in effect, this proposed rule will empower DACA recipients who’ve grown up in the United States to stay healthy and care for themselves and their loved ones, all while continuing to contribute to our economy and to communities across the country.” [Statement, 4/13/23] 

Sergio Gonzales, Executive Director of the Immigration Hub: “Today is a critical step forward for the over 600,000 young people who currently work and live in our nation thanks to DACA. We applaud the Biden-Harris Administration for taking action to improve the lives of young people who are American in all but paperwork. With this change of regulation by the administration, DACA recipients will be able to obtain health insurance under Medicaid or CHIP in their state; purchase health insurance in the ACA’s health insurance marketplace; and obtain federal tax credits to make private health insurance affordable…” [Statement, 4/13/23] 

CHIRLA: “Accessibility to affordable healthcare for hundreds of thousands of DACA recipients is common sense and fixes an injustice. We applaud this move by @POTUS and urge Congress to act now because DACA is under attack and millions live in limbo without permanent protections.” [Tweet, 4/13/23] 

National Immigration Law Center: “BREAKING: @POTUS is lifting restrictions on health care access for DACA recipients, allowing them to finally have access to the care they need. This is a critical, long-overdue victory for immigrant youth whose #HomeIsHere. And this victory is years in the making. For over a decade, DACA recipients have been unjustly excluded from #ACA and Medicaid, and we’ve been fighting alongside our partners to resolve this ever since. Today, we commend the Biden admin for rectifying this years-long injustice.” [Tweet Thread, 4/13/23]

Kica Matos, Executive Vice President of Programs and Strategy National Immigration Law Center: “As the pandemic made clear, the health of our communities depends on all of us having access to quality care. The Affordable Care Act and Medicaid are a lifeline to so many people, but DACA recipients have been unjustly excluded for over a decade. We commend the Biden administration for moving to rectify this years-long injustice so that more DACA recipients can access the care they need…” [Tweet, 4/13/23] 

José Alonso Muñoz, Communications Director, United We Dream: “A major win for DACA recipients & health advocates, President Biden is removing the bar to health care access for DACA recipients. This means more care for more people under the ACA and Medicaid.” [Tweet, 4/13/23]

Juliana Macedo do Nascimento, Deputy Director of Federal Advocacy, United We Dream: “Today’s news is a major victory for DACA recipients and their families that is the direct result of years of tenacious organizing. Having good reliable health care is a human need, and this rule change will mean that more people will have the life saving health care coverage they need to take care of themselves and their families. We all contribute to the health care programs so it was unconscionable that DACA recipients were barred from eligibility for ACA, Medicaid and other government subsidized health care. We celebrate President Biden and the Department of Health and Human Services for heeding our demands to remove this cruel and unnecessary bar on eligibility for hundreds of thousands of young people…” [Statement, 4/13/23]

Justice Action Center: “For too many DACA recipients, affordable health care has been out of reach. Pres. Biden’s move will allow hundreds of thousands to get cancer screenings, physicals + other treatment needed to stay healthy.” —Adela de la Torre, JAC’s Deputy Director. ” [Tweet, 4/13/23] 

America’s Voice “Today’s announcement by the Biden Administration is exactly the kind of action that is needed and a sign of what’s possible when there is the political will.” – @vcardenasDC on the announcement that the Affordable Care Act will expand to DACA recipients. https://bit.ly/3mwPODA” [Tweet, 4/13/23]

Cristina Tzintzún Ramirez, President, NextGen America: “This is great news! While we continue fighting for a pathway to citizenship for DACA recipients, it’s important to ensure they have access to the healthcare they deserve. This will improve the way of life of hundreds of thousands of people. Thank you Mr. President.” [Tweet, 4/13/23] 

Hispanic Federation: “DACA recipients, have you h eard? @POTUS plans to expand healthcare access for DACA recipients! This is a HUGE step forward and HF applauds the administration’s progressive action towards an equitable healthcare system for all.” [Tweet, 4/13/23]

National Partnership for New Americas: “Great news for DACA recipients! Biden admin’s proposal could grant healthcare access to nearly 600k immigrants in the DACA program through Medicaid and ACA. A significant step towards healthcare equity for all! #DACA #HealthcareEquity #ImmigrantRights” [Tweet, 4/13/23]

Antonio Arellano, Vice President of Communications, NextGen America: “This news is a ray of hope for DACA recipients like me. It’s reassuring to know that the Biden administration is taking steps to prioritize our well-being. This announcement reassures me that we’re not alone in this fight.” [Tweet, 4/13/23] 

American Business Immigration Coalition (ABIC): “Today, ABIC applauds @POTUS policy granting #DACArecipients access to medicaid and Affordable Care Act state exchanges.” [Tweet, 4/13/23]

American Business Immigration Coalition (ABIC): “ABIC applauds President Biden’s decision to grant DACA recipients access to Medicaid and to the state healthcare exchanges created under the Affordable Care Act. Though DACA recipients like me currently lack a pathway to citizenship, we work and serve our communities, paying state and federal taxes like everyone else and we are no less vulnerable than anyone else to health problems. Granting DACA recipients access to healthcare will no doubt save lives as it will also help stabilize millions who can now rest easy knowing that they can see a doctor when they need to. This policy will also help American businesses and employers that are facing labor shortages retain their DACA recipient employees.” [Statement, 4/13/23]

FIRM Action: “A WIN! This is an important step towards ensuring access to health care for hundreds of thousands of people! We all deserve the freedom to live safe and healthy lives.” [Tweet, 4/13/23] 

Cristina Jimenez, Former Executive Director, United We Dream: “The Biden Administration expands eligibility for Medicaid & the Affordable Care Act to #DACA recipients. This is a testament to the power of community demanding for change. Every victory counts! Text DACAINFO to 787-57.” [Tweet, 4/13/23] 

Marielena Hincapié, Former Executive Director of National Immigration Law Center: “Breaking News: Welcome news from @POTUS finally announcing that #DACA recipients are covered by the #ACA. #HomeIsHere #HealthForAll #ImmigrantsAreEssential” [Tweet, 4/13/23]

Juan Escalante, Immigrant Advocate and Digital Strategist: “Thanks for your continued commitment on #immigration and Dreamers, @POTUS!” [Tweet, 4/13/23] 

Families USA: “Dreamers have faced uncertainty for too long. Thank you, @POTUS, for providing them with the security and stability they need by expanding access to healthcare and social services. #ProtectDreamers #DACA” [Tweet, 4/13/23]

Latino Victory: “We applaud the Biden-Harris administration’s decision to expand healthcare access to DACA recipients. This is a major victory for DACA recipients and healthcare advocates. This decision will save lives.” [Tweet, 4/13/23]

Voto Latino: “We applaud the Biden Administration on their plan to expand healthcare for DACA recipients. Everyone deserves access to affordable healthcare regardless of immigration status” [Tweet, 4/13/23]  

@Foward Latino: “Thank you @Potus for providing #healthcare options to some of our nation’s hardest working Americans, our #DACA recipients!” [Tweet, 4/13/23]

CASA: “GREAT NEWS for DACA recipients! Thanks to the Biden administration’s expansion of #Medicaid and #ACA coverage, hundreds of thousands of people will now have access to more healthcare options. Today’s announcement is a major victory for #DACA holders and their families.” [Tweet, 4/13/23]  

Alianza Americas: “GOOD NEWS! Today, @POTUS announced that #DACA beneficiaries will soon be eligible for Medicaid and health plans through the Affordable Care Act. This is a step in the right direction toward ensuring equal access to health for all people.” [Tweet, 4/13/23]

Alianza For Progress [Translated from Spanish]:“President Joe Biden announced an expansion of public health insurance Medicaid and Obamacare so that it can now include Dreamers. This is a victory for our immigrants @BuildingBack_US @POTUS.” [Tweet, 4/13/23] 

The Young Center: “This is an important step towards building healthier, safer nation and it’s the kind of policy immigrant communities need. Now, congress needs to pass a pathway to citizenship for DACA recipients and all 11 million undocumented people in the U.S.” [Tweet, 4/13/23]

Erika Andiola, Activist & Comms Director, The Young Center: “This is HUGE! We, DACA recipients, are now eligible for the ACA, Medicaid, and CHIP. This is long overdue, but progress nonetheless. And before anyone comes to tell me that we “don’t deserve” this benefit, let me remind you that we too pay taxes. A lot.” [Tweet, 4/13/23] 

National Partnership for New Americans (NPNA): “Great news for DACA recipients! Biden admin’s proposal could grant healthcare access to nearly 600K immigrants in the DACA program through Medicaid and ACA. A significant step towards healthcare equity for all! #DACA #HealthcareEquity #ImmigrantRights http://ow.ly/KR1o50NIhMS.” [Tweet, 4/13/23]  

Center for Community Change: “This is an important step towards ensuring access to health care for hundreds of thousands of people, but while DACA remains under attack, we need Congress to do its job and pass a path to citizenship not just for DACA recipients, but all 11 million undocumented people.” [Tweet, 4/13/23]

UnidosUS: “For too long, #DACA recipients have been blocked from accessing #Medicaid and Marketplace coverage when in need. We applaud the Biden administration’s decision today to end this arbitrary exclusion and reduce inequities in our health system.” [Tweet, 4/13/23]

Asylum Seeker Advocacy Project (ASAP): “ASAP applauds the Biden administration @POTUS for making #DACA recipients eligible to get health insurance on the ACA Marketplace. Everyone in the U.S. should have access to healthcare coverage, regardless of their immigration status.” [Tweet, 4/13/23] 

Andrea Rathbone Ramos, Digital Communications Specialist, American Immigration Council: “… As a DACA recipient, I often think back to when I was in college and had to make the hard choice to skip out on medical care to afford groceries. I, alongside the American Immigration Council, would like to thank and applaud the Biden Administration today for this expansion of the Affordable Care Act. Immigration status should not be a barrier to healthcare access, and today’s announcement fills a void for DACA beneficiaries like myself, who were previously excluded from the ACA. This new expansion let’s immigrants who have contributed to our healthcare system, from small business owners, to students, to stay-at-home parents, obtain essential medical care. As I know firsthand, the DACA community has often been left out in the past. Thankfully, this new ACA expansion is a great step toward equitable access to services for immigrants. It will now be easier for the DACA community to receive medical care without having to worry about being able to put food on the table. Dreamers are crucial members of our workforce, and our communities and Congress should act and finally do what is right and pass legislation to provide them with a path to citizenship.

Today, the Biden Administration has unveiled a plan to expand access to Affordable Care Act and Medicaid coverage for #DACA recipients. The American Immigration Council applauds these efforts and has issued the following response.”[Tweet, 4/13/23] 

ACLU: “We commend President Biden for this important step in ensuring DACA recipients are treated with fairness and dignity. It’s time for Congress to build on the president’s commitment and provide a real path forward for immigrant youth and families.” [Tweet, 4/13/23] 

NumbersUSA: “The action will allow participants in the Obama-era Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals program, or DACA, to access government-funded health insurance programs.” [Tweet, 4/13/23] 

Héctor Sánchez Barba, Executive Director and CEO, Mi Familia Vota: “Healthcare should be a right for all, especially given immigrants contribute to health care programs. We applaud the expansion of critical healthcare care programs to DACA recipients. Now we must work together to create structural changes to fully include immigrants that contribute so much to our country’s being. Congress must act; we need results as soon as possible, and our communities can not wait. While this is a welcome step forward, we know that the key to unlocking our country’s full potential, to keep the promise of its greatness, is to provide a full pathway to citizenship to those who contribute so much to the United States.” [Statement, 4/13/23] 

Chuck Rocha “BIG news today out of the @WhiteHouse Thank you @POTUS”[Tweet, 4/13/23]

Alida Garcia, former National Latino Vote Deputy Director, Obama For America 2012: “Really really great news from @POTUS!” [Tweet, 4/13/23]

Astrid Silva, Founder, DREAM Big NV: “Small seeds planted for many years, finally seeing them bloom. This is welcome news, thank you @SecBecerra & @POTUS. While I know there is so much more to be done, knowing that #DACA recipients (while the program exists) will be able to be a part of the #ACA is joyful news.” [Tweet, 4/13/23]

Maribel Hernández Rivera, Deputy National Political Director, ACLU: “We commend President Biden for this important step in ensuring DACA recipients are treated with fairness and dignity. It’s time for Congress to build on the president’s commitment and provide a real path forward for immigrant youth and families.” [Tweet, 4/13/23] 

Center on Budget and Policy Priorities: “The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) announced today its plans to make Medicaid and Affordable Care Act marketplace coverage available to people with Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA). This will be a welcome end to the longtime bar on eligibility that has kept many people from being able to access affordable health coverage…The Biden Administration made the right call to end the ban on affordable health coverage for people with DACA…” [Statement, 4/13/23]

Lupe M. Rodríguez, Executive Director, National Latina Institute for Reproductive Justice: “We applaud the Biden Administration and Secretary of Health and Human Services Xavier Becerra for taking steps to ensure DACA recipients will finally be eligible for healthcare coverage under the Affordable Care Act. This is great news for DREAMers who have often delayed or avoided getting the health care they need. Latinos/xs are uninsured at the highest rates in the U.S and we face persistent barriers that deny us the tools to stay healthy. We are proud to stand with NAPAWF, and many other advocates, to ensure that those of us who come here for a better life can have access to our human right to health care and are better able to take care of ourselves and our families” [Statement, 4/13/23]

Mayra Macías, Interim Executive Director, Building Back Together: “Everyone deserves access to quality, affordable health care — and today’s announcement brings us another step closer to that reality. DACA recipients will now have access to the lower costs and more affordable health care coverage that President Biden has delivered for hard-working families. This expanded eligibility for Medicaid and Affordable Care Act programs is a significant victory that will improve the lives of DACA recipients and their families.”[Tweet, 4/13/23] 

Mariana Alessandra, Director of Digital Strategy, Building Back Together: “Growing up undocumented I lived most of my life without health insurance. Even with DACA, it was nearly impossible to find affordable care – with a singular clinic in Central Florida taking low-income immigrant families. This is a life-changing announcement for DACA recipients.” [Tweet, 4/13/23]

NARAL: “Today’s news that the Biden administration will expand health care for DACA recipients is possible because of the tireless work of immigration organizations and activists. Everybody deserves access to health care—and we celebrate this victory alongside our partners.” [Tweet, 4/13/23]

National Health Law Program: “The Biden administration is proposing new rules that would allow immigrants covered by the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals program to qualify for health insurance through Medicaid and Affordable Care Act marketplaces! #DACA #Medicaid” [Tweet, 4/13/23]

League of Women Voters of the US: “We are pleased to hear that DACA recipients will now have health care protections under the law. Every US resident should have access to affordable, quality health care.” [Tweet, 4/13/23]

Community Change “This is an important step towards ensuring access to health care for hundreds of thousands of people, but while DACA remains under attack, we need Congress to do its job and pass a path to citizenship not just for DACA recipients, but all 11 million undocumented people. ” [Tweet, 4/13/23] 

CLASP: “!!! The Biden Administration is taking action to remove some barriers that prevent #DACA recipients from accessing the #ACA marketplace. It’s time to ensure that everyone has access to affordable health care. #HealthCareForAll” [Tweet, 4/13/23]

American Friends Service Committees: “The Biden admin. announced it would restore #ACA access to #DACA recipients through a months-long regulatory process beginning April 2023. AFSC and over 320 nat’l partners worked on the #ACA4DACA campaign calling for access to be restored.” [Tweet, 4/13/23] 

The National Asian Pacific American Women’s Forum (NAPAWF): “The Biden Administration is announcing that it will expand eligibility to health care benefits under the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (ACA) and Medicaid to Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) recipients…We applaud President Joe Biden and Secretary of Health and Human Services Xavier Becerra for removing unnecessary policy barriers that prevent those who were brought to this country as children from accessing health care…” [Statement, 4/13/23] 

Planned Parenthood: “Great news! For the first time DACA recipients will be able to receive access to critical federal health insurance services through Medicaid and the Affordable Care Act. Everyone, no matter their immigration status, deserves access to affordable health coverage.” [Tweet, 4/13/23]

Andrea Mercado, Community Organizer & Executive Director, Florida Rising: “While DeSantis and Republicans in Florida propose to keep immigrants out of hospitals and will charge churches with felonies, @POTUS is including dreamers in affordable healthcare #aca Celebrate every victory and keep fighting #immigrantrights #justiciamigrante #bridgesnotwalls” [Tweet, 4/13/23]

National Health Law Program: “The Biden administration is proposing new rules that would allow immigrants covered by the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals program to qualify for health insurance through Medicaid and Affordable Care Act marketplaces! #DACA #Medicaid” [Tweet, 4/13/23] 

Juan Escalante, Democratic Commentator: “Thanks for your continued commitment on #immigration and Dreamers, @POTUS!” [Tweet, 4/13/23]

Madeline T. Morcelle, Lawyer, National Health Law Program: “It’s finally happening: the Biden Admin is announcing ACA coverage for #DACA recipients. Congratulations immigrant families and advocates!”[Tweet, 4/13/23]

Mari Urbina (Indivisible, Managing Director): “One of my areas of focus when I worked for Leader Reid was the interaction of immigr & hc policies. To see today’s news by Pres Biden to expand healthcare access to DACA recipients brings into focus the critical inside/outside organizing over the years by @NILC @UNITEDWEDREAM” [Tweet, 4/13/23]

Felice Gorordo, Chief Executive Officer, eMerge Americas: “Thank you, @POTUS, for continuing to support our #DREAMers!” [Tweet, 4/13/23]

Gabe Ortíz, Editor, America’s Voice: “Some fantastic news: Biden admin set to expand eligibility for Medicaid and the Affordable Care Act to #DACA recipients. One analysis found that DACA recipient households pay $6.2B in federal taxes & $3.3b in state & local taxes each year.” [Tweet, 4/13/23]

Texas Signal: “Biden Expanding Health Coverage to DACA Recipients” [Statement, 4/13/23]

North Carolina Democratic Party:  “An estimated 24,000 DACA recipients live in North Carolina. This plan is a big step forward in ensuring they can access the affordable medical care they deserve.” [Tweet, 4/13/23]

Texas Democrats: “Texas Democrats Celebrate Biden-Harris Administration’s Efforts to Expand Healthcare Access to DACA Recipients” [Statement, 4/13/23]