Us Congress Senate Bill SB2492

Us Congress 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 7/25/23
• Refer: 7/25/23
• Report Pass: 5/15/24

Caption

Ending Improper Payments to Deceased People Act

Impact

If enacted, SB2492 is expected to significantly impact the way federal and state agencies manage payments to beneficiaries. The act would facilitate better sharing of information to ensure that financial assistance programs do not inadvertently continue payments to individuals who are deceased. By integrating the Do Not Pay working system in this manner, the legislation aims to reduce fraud and mismanagement of taxpayer funds, ensuring that public resources are utilized appropriately and only for eligible recipients.

Summary

Senate Bill 2492, titled the 'Ending Improper Payments to Deceased People Act', seeks to enhance the coordination between the Do Not Pay working system and both federal and state agencies. The primary objective of the bill is to prevent improper payments made to deceased individuals, thereby improving the efficiency and accountability of government financial systems. Through amendments to the Social Security Act, the bill mandates cooperation between the Social Security Administration and agencies that utilize the Do Not Pay system, ultimately aiming to streamline the identification of deceased beneficiaries in payment systems.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SB2492 is generally positive, with widespread support from lawmakers focused on reducing waste and improving government efficiency. Advocates highlight the importance of safeguarding taxpayer dollars and enhancing the integrity of payment systems. However, there are underlying concerns regarding the privacy of individuals and the processes by which deceased individuals are identified, with some advocacy groups seeking assurance that these changes will not lead to wrongful termination of benefits for surviving family members or other unintended consequences.

Contention

While the bill is primarily framed as a measure to strengthen fraud prevention through better data coordination, there is apprehension regarding potential bureaucratic hurdles that might arise from increased data sharing. Stakeholders note that while improving payment integrity is paramount, there must be careful consideration of the implications for privacy and support services for surviving family members. Thorough oversight and clear guidelines are necessary to balance the goals of the bill with the rights of individuals and families affected by these changes.