Local officials and immigrant rights advocates in states like California have voiced strong concerns over the data-sharing move. According to multiple sources, leaders including California Gov. Gavin Newsom argued that the measure erodes trust in public health systems and could deter at-risk populations from seeking medical care, while also potentially jeopardizing their legal status or safety.

California’s state-funded Medicaid program for immigrants serves approximately 1.6 million people at a cost exceeding $8.5 billion annually. Illinois’ program is expected to close for about 30,000 noncitizens. Nationwide, the CMS review and data collection concerned millions of enrollees, demonstrating large-scale administrative and fiscal implications.

Gavin Newsom’s office stated, “We deeply value the privacy of all Californians…this potential data transfer brought to our attention by the AP is extremely concerning, and if true, potentially unlawful.” HHS spokesman Andrew Nixon said, “HHS acted entirely within its legal authority— and in full compliance with all applicable laws.”

Community members and animal advocates have expressed strong reactions, with Apollo’s owners sharing pain and outrage over the incident. Public statements from the Independent Police Monitor and calls for improved officer training reflect broader concern regarding police interactions with animals and the perceived adequacy of department responses to such incidents.

"We are so glad to have justice for Apollo," Attorney William Most. "The claim that the NOPD ‘reversed’ in response to the civil lawsuit is spurious," City of New Orleans statement.

The humanitarian parole program was established to offer legal entry and temporary residence for migrants from countries facing political or humanitarian crises. Such parole programs have been used in the past for various nationalities but are typically discretionary and tied to U.S. foreign policy, border management concerns, and domestic economic or security considerations.

While some officials claim that the parole program allowed poorly vetted migrants and contributed to crime or labor market disruption, supporters counter that entrants were required to pass background checks and have financial sponsors. Independent reports and court records have not established widespread fraud or criminality specifically linked to this program.

The order immediately affects migrants’ legal status, employment, and eligibility for public services, increasing vulnerability to detention or deportation. Healthcare and service sectors that rely on these workers may experience staffing shortages. The new policy also signals a broader shift in the U.S. approach to humanitarian migration.