English

DACA Recipients in Colorado Can Still Access Obamacare Plans

WHILE A FEDERAL COURT BLOCKED DREAMERS’ ACA ENROLLMENT IN 19 STATES, COLORADO GUARANTEES CONTINUED ACCESS TO HEALTH COVERAGE THROUGH CONNECT FOR HEALTH COLORADO.

Newsroom El Comercio de Colorado

Haga click aquí para leer la versión en español

DACA (Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals) recipients in Colorado will continue enrolling in health insurance plans through Connect for Health Colorado, the state’s Affordable Care Act (ACA) marketplace, for the 2025 coverage year. This assurance was confirmed by Kevin Patterson, CEO of Connect for Health Colorado (C4HC), following a court ruling issued on December 9.

“The federal court decision in the case Kansas v. United States of America does not affect Colorado,” Patterson said. “For the 2025 coverage year, DACA recipients in Colorado can still enroll in health insurance and qualify for financial assistance. We will continue monitoring developments and maintaining communication with our partners and affiliates as needed.” Patterson emphasized that Dreamers enrolling through the C4HC marketplace will receive financial support.

Republican-Led States Oppose

The ruling, issued by Judge Daniel Traynor in North Dakota, blocks DACA beneficiaries from enrolling in ACA health plans and receiving subsidies in 19 states. These states, led by Republican attorneys general, argued that Biden’s rule—classifying Dreamers as “lawfully present” for ACA purposes—would create administrative burdens and encourage undocumented immigration.

The affected states include Kansas, North Dakota, Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Idaho, and Indiana, as well as Iowa, Kentucky, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, New Hampshire, Ohio, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, and Virginia.

The Biden administration estimates that approximately 100,000 uninsured Dreamers nationwide could have benefited from this rule. Although the federal government is expected to appeal the decision, legal experts suggest the case’s outcome could depend on the judicial stance of the next administration.

Enrollment Until January 15

“From Colorado, we reaffirm our commitment to equitable access to health care for Dreamers. Eligible DACA recipients can visit Connect for Health Colorado’s website or contact certified insurance brokers for assistance in selecting a health plan,” Patterson said. He reiterated that enrollment for these health programs will remain open until January 15, 2025.