How this bill affects kids: Denying children access to public benefits such as food assistance and healthcare because their parents are undocumented would be harmful to
all children.
1. Harm to Mixed-Status Families:
Children born as U.S. citizens in mixed-status households would lose access to benefits they are legally entitled to, including essential resources like food assistance and healthcare.
This exclusion could lead to malnutrition, health complications, and reduced educational performance, as hunger and untreated health issues directly affect cognitive development and school success.
2. Health Risks to Communities:
Without access to preventive healthcare (e.g., immunizations, regular checkups), children in these families could be more susceptible to illnesses.
This increases the risk of spreading preventable diseases in schools and communities, posing public health challenges.
3. Inequity and Long-Term Impacts:
Denying benefits to children due to their parents' immigration status perpetuates cycles of poverty and inequality, affecting their long-term well-being and opportunities.
Public health systems might face greater strain as untreated conditions develop into more severe and costly medical emergencies.