Immigration Reform and Access to Health Coverage: Key Issues to Consider

The Obama administration and a bipartisan group of U.S. senators recently released blueprints for immigration reform proposals that include a roadmap to citizenship for the 11 million undocumented immigrants currently residing in the United States. Subject to meeting specified requirements, these individuals would be able to apply for a provisional lawful status. After completing an undefined number of years in this status, an individual would then be allowed to apply for lawful permanent residency and, eventually, United States citizenship. Among the key issues to consider as part of immigration reform is to what extent these aspiring citizens will be able to access affordable health coverage options at various stages on the roadway to citizenship.

 Brief (.pdf)