Perspectives of Latina immigrant women on Proposition 187

Proposition 187 was passed by California voters in 1994. Although ruled partially unconstitutional in the lower courts and currently enjoined, it prohibits people lacking legal residency status from obtaining any but emergency medical care at any health facility receiving public funds. Proposition 187 came in response to the surge in immigration to California during the 1980s and early 1990s and to the state's economic situation. We interviewed immigrant women to explore how they view Proposition 187, what they know about it, and how related fears may influence their use of health services. The women perceived Proposition 187 as discriminatory and directed primarily at Latinos, building on existing fears about their economically and socially marginalized position. Strategies the women used to maintain health services are discussed.