The Protect American Values Act prohibits the federal government from using any taxpayer funding to implement or enforce a Department of Homeland Security rule on "public charge" that determines which immigrants can be denied entry or legal permanent resident status based on their use of public benefits. The bill would block enforcement of this rule, which critics argue discourages immigrants and their families, including U.S. citizens, from accessing food assistance, healthcare, and housing programs they are legally eligible for. According to the legislation, the rule creates uncertainty for people applying for legal permanent residency and could harm public health by causing higher rates of disease, malnutrition, and unpaid medical bills, particularly in low-income communities. The bill is supported by progressive Democratic lawmakers who contend the rule contradicts 140 years of immigration policy and was implemented without proper Congressional approval. No specific funding amount or implementation timeline is specified in the bill.