Garcia Celebrates Biden Expanding Healthcare Access and ‘Support’ for ‘Dreamers’

Texas Representative Sylvia Garcia (D) recently released a statement celebrating President Joe Biden expanding access to affordable healthcare for DACA recipients. The congresswoman expressed hope for the new measure, claiming that it contributed “to building healthier and more vibrant communities.”

“I have been fighting for our Dreamers since before I came to Congress, and I commend the Biden Administration for taking this critical step in expanding access to the Affordable Care Act to include DACA recipients. Throughout the COVID pandemic, we saw our Dreamers serve on the front lines in hospitals, clinics, and beyond. Illness does not discriminate on the basis of immigration status, and today’s rule change will save lives,” said Rep. Garcia.

Garcia continued to promote her bipartisan immigration bill as she commended the president’s new legislation.

“As the lead of the Bipartisan American Dream and Promise Act, I applaud President Biden’s commitment to protecting Dreamers as we continue to fight for a pathway citizenship. Today’s victory is one more step in ensuring that DACA recipients are here to stay,” said the congresswoman.

In February, Garcia gave a speech on the House floor touting the benefits of the American Dream and Promises Act.

“Make no mistake, this is not a partisan issue. Over 70% of Americans favor a law providing permanent legal status to Dreamers. This is a real solution with support. The American Dream and Promise Act will have a life-changing effect on every single district in this country,” said Garcia.

“I’m proud of the contributions of Dreamers to our country and committed to providing Dreamers the support they need to succeed. That’s why I’ve previously directed the Department of Homeland Security to take all appropriate actions to “preserve and fortify” DACA. And that’s why today we are taking this historic step to ensure that DACA recipients have the same access to health care through the Affordable Care Act as their neighbors,” said Pres. Biden.

The president’s new expansions allow DACA recipients to apply for coverage through the Health Insurance Marketplace, “where they may qualify for financial assistance based on income, and through their state Medicaid agency.” Furthermore, the program will make sure to verify enrollees’ information digitally.