The state of California is expected to start covering senior citizens who lack legal immigration status under the Medi-Cal program. This major change will give thousands of undocumented elderly residents age 65 and older the opportunity to obtain state health insurance without being disqualified due to immigration requirements.
While California already offers medical coverage for low-income children and young adults regardless of legal immigration status, Gov. Gavin Newsom is expected to add seniors into this program by including them in his upcoming budget proposal or through legislative action.
Senator María Elena Durazo worked closely with, Gov. Newsom to introduce health care expansion for seniors into the state spending plan. Durazo tweeted the following in support of the governor’s efforts:
“Thank you @CAgovernor for including our undocumented seniors in this important expansion of Medi-Cal. After a lifetime of hard work and sacrifice, our elders deserve to age with dignity and support. #Health4All.”
According to estimates, it will cost approximately $121 million dollars a year to cover undocumented seniors. California’s state budget is $215 billion. Estimates also show that 25,000 undocumented individuals in the 65-and-older age demographic would likely sign up for Medi-Cal under Gov. Newsom’s plan to expand healthcare coverage.
Our Compassionate Immigration Lawyers Are Here for You
The immigration lawyers at US Legal Group are glad to hear that California’s governor continues to advocate for the rights of immigrants living in the state. Our dedicated legal team has helped countless immigrants in California fight for crucial services and citizenship. We have the extensive resources and knowledge of the law that you need on your side to successfully navigate the U.S. immigration system. If you need help petitioning for a green card or adjusting your immigration status, then consult with our Orange immigration lawyers to get answers to your questions.
Are you ready to reach out to a lawyer at US Legal Group? Call (714) 921-5226 today so we can review your case and get started building your legal strategy.