A federal court ruling has stalled the expansion of Affordable Care Act benefits for certain undocumented immigrants in 19 states. The decision questions the authority of a federal agency to extend healthcare coverage, igniting a debate over immigration and healthcare policy. Court Halts ACA Coverage for DACA Recipients U.S. District Judge Daniel M. Traynor issued a preliminary injunction, putting a stop to the Biden administration’s plan to allow DACA recipients access to ACA health plans and financial support. Kansas Attorney General Kris Kobach led the charge, stating the move violated congressional authority by extending benefits to “lawfully present” individuals not recognized as such under current law. The policy aimed to provide health coverage options for approximately 100,000 DACA recipients. States involved argued that this extension would lead to irreparable harm and added administrative burdens, potentially affecting federal support. The Department of Health and Human Services adjusted the “lawfully present” definition to include DACA recipients, fueling the controversy. NEWS: We're expanding access to health care for Dreamers by ensuring they will no longer be ineligible for coverage through the ACA Marketplaces or a Basic Health Program—allowing an estimated 100,000 previously uninsured DACA recipients to enroll. https://t.co/gZeA9H2WdE — HHS.gov (@HHSGov) May 3, 2024 Judicial Authority vs. Congressional Authority Judge Traynor emphasized that CMS lacks the power to unilaterally redefine what constitutes lawful presence, a capability reserved for Congress. Kris Kobach hailed the ruling as a victory for the rule of law, underscoring how Congress never intended for ACA benefits to extend to undocumented immigrants and asserting that two laws expressly prevent such actions. A spokesperson for CMS indicated the agency is reviewing the decision, although they refrained from commenting on ongoing litigation. The case adds to the existing tensions over healthcare access for undocumented immigrants. Federal judge temporarily blocks Dreamers from accessing Obamacare https://t.co/ovMVfRFMuU — Just the News (@JustTheNews) December 10, 2024 Continuing Legal and Legislative Battles The case brings attention to the broader legislative and judicial conflicts surrounding the DACA program, originally established during the Obama administration to shield immigrants from deportation while allowing them to work legally. However, DACA has consistently faced legal challenges, particularly over recipients’ eligibility for government-subsidized health insurance. The Department of Justice remains involved, as federal agencies navigate the complex intersection of immigration and healthcare policy. Kris Kobach stated this legal battle underscores the importance of adhering to established laws and the proper legislative process. The decision currently halts the ACA benefit expansion while the broader legal debate over immigrant healthcare rights continues to unfold. Sources: Federal court blocks ACA coverage for Dreamers Court Temporarily Blocks Obamacare Coverage to Dreamers in 19 States | The Epoch Times Court Blocks Biden’s Expansion of Obamacare for DACA Recipients Court Challenge Could Get in the Way of “Dreamers” Enrolling in ACA Plans | Truthout The post Court Freezes ACA Benefits Change for DACA Across Multiple States appeared first on The Conservative Brief.