H.R.963 - Protecting Social Security Act (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.963, the "Protecting Social Security Act," aims to expedite congressional consideration of legislation addressing the potential insolvency of the Federal Old-Age and Survivors Insurance Trust Fund or the Federal Disability Insurance Trust Fund. The bill mandates that if the Social Security Commissioner certifies that either trust fund is unable to finance benefit payments, Congress must swiftly consider a bill that ensures full benefits continue, avoids tax increases on most individuals, and places the burden of additional funding on the "ultra-wealthy and corporations."
The bill also requires the Social Security Administration to ensure a field office operates in every county with a population greater than 150,000. It outlines specific procedures for expedited consideration in both the House and Senate, including timelines for committee review, floor debate, and voting.
This bill is designed to safeguard Social Security benefits and ensure access to local Social Security offices, particularly for those who rely on the program and may not be able to seek help online or over the phone.
Expected Effects
The bill would establish a fast-track process for Congress to address Social Security insolvency if the Commissioner certifies that the trust funds are insufficient. This could lead to quicker action to prevent benefit cuts or other negative consequences for Social Security recipients.
The requirement for Social Security field offices in populous counties could improve access to services for many Americans. However, the bill's definition of a "Social Security solvency bill" might limit the range of solutions considered, potentially leading to debates about who qualifies as "ultra-wealthy."
Ultimately, the bill's effectiveness depends on Congress's ability to agree on a solvency bill that meets the specified criteria and can pass both houses within the expedited timeframe.
Potential Benefits
- Ensures continued full Social Security benefits for recipients during times of potential insolvency.
- Guarantees expedited consideration of Social Security solvency bills in Congress.
- Improves access to Social Security services by mandating field offices in populous counties.
- Protects Social Security benefits against inflation through automatic cost-of-living adjustments.
- Shields most individuals from tax increases to fund Social Security solvency.
Potential Disadvantages
- The definition of "Social Security solvency bill" is restrictive and may hinder consideration of alternative solutions.
- The focus on taxing the "ultra-wealthy and corporations" may lead to political gridlock and delays in addressing solvency issues.
- Expedited procedures could limit thorough debate and consideration of potential consequences.
- The bill's findings section includes partisan statements that could undermine bipartisan support.
- The bill does not address the underlying causes of Social Security's financial challenges.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill's focus on Social Security aligns with the Constitution's mandate to "promote the general Welfare" (Preamble). Article I, Section 8 grants Congress the power to lay and collect taxes to pay the debts and provide for the common defense and general welfare of the United States. The bill's provisions for expedited consideration are procedural and fall within Congress's power to determine its own rules of proceedings (Article I, Section 5).
However, the bill's definition of a "Social Security solvency bill" might raise concerns about equal protection under the Fifth Amendment if it unfairly targets specific groups for taxation. The requirement for Social Security field offices could be seen as an appropriate use of federal power to provide for the general welfare.
Overall, the bill's constitutional alignment is moderate, with some provisions potentially subject to legal challenges based on equal protection or due process concerns.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).