The Supreme Court ruled to allow the Trump administration to move forward with its “Public Charge” policy which restricts legal status to immigrants who depend on welfare benefits Monday.

The 5-4 vote split the conservative and liberal judges.

Immigrants will be rejected from getting green cards or visas if government officials suspect they would rely on housing or health care assistance. The policy was unveiled last summer but was blocked from being implemented by lower federal courts.

Deputy Director of the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services agency and Acting Deputy Secretary of Homeland Security Ken Cuccinelli stated, “We want to see people coming to this country who are self-sufficient. That’s a core principle of the American dream. It’s deeply embedded in our history, and particularly our history related to legal immigration.”

Refugees or asylum seekers would not be affected by the Public Charge.

Democrats and immigration activists denounced the policy.

Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-NY) called it “shameful” and a “wealth test.”

“This is shameful. America shouldn’t have a wealth test for admission. It’s a place where millions of people are descendants of immigrants who came w nothing & made a life. The American Dream isn’t a private club with a cover charge - it’s the possibility of remaking your future,” the former bartender turned lawmaker tweeted.

Of course, Senator Bernie Sanders (I-VT) criticized the policy, calling it a design to “demonize and hurt” immigrants who need it the most.

“This country was built by immigrants. The American people want comprehensive, humane immigration reform. We must reverse these Trump programs which are designed to demonize and hurt those who are the most vulnerable of all,” tweeted Sanders.

One woman tweeted she felt it was only fair since the same rule applied to her adopted children.

“I was born in the United States and adopted children from overseas. I had to sign a document confirming I would not be on welfare after I adopted them. Why should the rules be different for those who come here illegally?” tweeted June Smith.

Another person pointed out the policies are the same in Scandinavian nations.

“This is the exact policies for permanent immigration in Scandinavian nations … must have a sponsor, must know the language, must have a profession/degree, must be financially independent.”