Illinois resident Maria Sanchez, an 87-year-old unauthorized immigrant from Mexico, never had health insurance until she got covered under a landmark program for older immigrants without legal status. Democratic-led states like Illinois are expanding public insurance programs to immigrants lacking permanent legal status, causing backlash from Republicans. Several states are covering adults without authorization, with Minnesota set to join next year. Advocates believe the pandemic’s impact has influenced shifting attitudes toward immigrant healthcare. While some states have scaled back or delayed expansions, others like New York have opened Medicaid to all adult immigrants. Illinois’ program has been a success, providing essential care to immigrants like Sanchez and saving lives.
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