A federal judge in New York last week issued a nationwide injunction on a Trump administration rule that would make it harder for immigrants to apply for permanent residence if they access public benefits.
But Long Island activists and politicians say the damage is already done.
Suffolk County Legislature Presiding Officer DuWayne Gregory says even though the rule was blocked, the fear of deportation is keeping legal immigrants from public services.
“We have already seen how new federal policies are pushing immigrants into the shadows and creating a fear-based environment. Immigrants are afraid to apply for food stamps, seek medical attention or even participate in a census count, which they should never fear doing.”
Local agencies have reported prenatal care and nutrition support programs have seen lower enrollment from legal immigrants.
The injunction means that people who apply for a green card will not be held to the new rule while litigation is pending.
