The Biden administration is seeking to allow participants in the Deferred Action of Childhood Arrivals (DACA) programme access to government-subsided health insurance programmes.

Immigrants enrolled in the DACA programme, known as Dreamers, are people who were brought to the US as children by undocumented parents. They lack permanent legal status, therefore DACA beneficiaries do not qualify for most federal benefits.

The proposal from President Biden would make nearly 600,000 Dreamers eligible for coverage under Medicaid and the Affordable Care Act (ACA), if they meet all the requirements.

“If finalised, the rule will make DACA recipients eligible for these programs for the first time,” the White House said. “Under the proposed rule, DACA recipients will be able 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.”

The President tweeted: “I believe healthcare should be a right. I've worked hard to get more Americans health insurance than ever before – and today’s announcement that we’re expanding health coverage for DACA recipients is about giving Dreamers the same opportunities and support.”

However, Texas and other US states with Republican Attorney Generals are challenging the programme in court.

The US healthcare system can be difficult to navigate, ITIJ recently investigated the current landscape.