WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Representative Pramila Jayapal (WA-07), Ranking Member of the Immigration Integrity, Security, and Enforcement Subcommittee, has partnered with Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ) and Representative Nanette Barragán (CA-44) to introduce the Health Equity and Access under Law (HEAL) for Immigrant Families Act. The legislation is designed to expand access to health care coverage for immigrant communities across the United States.
The HEAL Act, a bicameral initiative co-sponsored by 55 members of Congress, aims to dismantle systemic barriers that prevent many immigrants from accessing affordable and comprehensive health care. The proposed legislation would permit immigrants to participate in federal health care programs, including Medicaid, the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP), and the Affordable Care Act (ACA) marketplaces, without the restrictions currently imposed based on immigration status.
Under existing federal law, many immigrants — including lawful permanent residents — face a five-year waiting period before they can enroll in Medicaid or CHIP. Additionally, undocumented immigrants are barred from purchasing health coverage through the ACA exchanges, even when they are willing to pay full price without subsidies. The HEAL Act would remove these limitations and provide equitable access to health services.
The legislation comes amid continued national attention on public health disparities exposed by the COVID-19 pandemic, where immigrant and marginalized communities have experienced disproportionately higher rates of infection and reduced access to care.
“Health care is a human right, not a privilege limited to the few,” said Rep. Jayapal in a statement. “Immigrants contribute greatly to our economy, communities, and society — and they deserve access to health care coverage without needless obstacles.”
Senator Booker echoed the sentiment, emphasizing that improving health equity for immigrant populations would strengthen public health outcomes more broadly across the nation.
The HEAL for Immigrant Families Act has received endorsements from dozens of advocacy organizations and public health groups. Supporters argue that ensuring equal access to health care strengthens the nation’s healthcare system by promoting preventive care, reducing emergency room reliance, and improving community health outcomes.
The bill now awaits assignment to committee for further legislative action.
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