Protect American Values Act
- Sponsor
- Rep. Chu, Judy [D-CA-28]
- Committees
- Judiciary Committee (primary)
- Last action
- Aug 6, 2026
Bottom line
The bill seeks to nullify the effect of a Department of Homeland Security rule that defines "public charge" for immigration purposes by cutting off all federal funding for its implementation.
What it actually does
This bill, the "Protect American Values Act," prohibits the use of any federal funds, including fees, for the implementation, administration, enforcement, or carrying out of the Department of Homeland Security's final rule titled "Public Charge Ground of Inadmissibility" (91 Fed. Reg. 45324), or any related guidance or sub-regulatory policy. Essentially, it aims to defund and thereby prevent the enforcement of the specified public charge rule.
Proponents argue
Supporters argue that the DHS public charge rule is a dangerous policy that impedes access to essential food, medical care, and housing for immigrant and mixed-status families, leading to worse health outcomes, increased poverty, and damage to state and local economies. They contend the rule circumvents Congress and reverses over 140 years of law and policy, restricting immigration and chilling access to services for eligible individuals.
Opponents contend
Opponents of this bill (i.e., proponents of the DHS public charge rule) would likely argue that the public charge rule is a necessary measure to ensure that immigrants are self-sufficient and do not become a burden on taxpayers, aligning with long-standing principles of immigration law. They would assert that the rule protects public resources and encourages economic independence among those seeking to become lawful permanent residents.
The bill is very short and can be read quickly, making it accessible for immediate evaluation.
Section 3
Prohibition on Federal Funds for Public Charge Rule
This section explicitly forbids the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) or any other federal entity from using any federal money, including fees collected, to put into practice, manage, enforce, or otherwise carry out the "Public Charge Ground of Inadmissibility" rule (91 Fed. Reg. 45324). This prohibition also extends to any related guidelines or policies that support or clarify the rule.
Supporters argue
Proponents argue that defunding the public charge rule is essential to protect vulnerable immigrant families, including U.S. citizen children, from losing access to critical health, food, and housing assistance. They believe it prevents increased poverty, worse health outcomes, and a rise in communicable diseases, which DHS itself acknowledged as potential consequences.
Critics contend
Opponents of this bill would argue that preventing the enforcement of the public charge rule undermines the principle that immigrants should be self-sufficient and not rely on public assistance. They might contend that this bill would lead to increased strain on public welfare programs and could encourage reliance on government support rather than self-reliance.
Tradeoffs
The bill navigates the tension between ensuring immigrant access to public assistance for health and stability, and the principle of immigrant self-sufficiency to avoid becoming a "public charge." It also highlights a tension between congressional authority and executive branch rulemaking in immigration policy.