Pennsylvania 2023-2024 Regular Session

Pennsylvania House Bill HR515

Introduced
8/21/24  

Caption

Urging the Congress of the United States to pass S.2767, the SSI Savings Penalty Elimination Act and increase resource limits for Supplemental Security Income.

Impact

The impact of HR515, if enacted, would be significant for many individuals currently receiving SSI. The proposed changes would not only benefit those with disabilities but also individuals aged 65 and older, allowing them to build savings without the fear of losing essential benefits. Additionally, the increase in resource limits is posited to assist families in escaping poverty and achieving greater financial security, thus improving their overall quality of life. This measure is supported by a range of organizations, indicating broad-based public and institutional support.

Summary

House Resolution 515 urges the U.S. Congress to pass Senate Bill 2767, known as the SSI Savings Penalty Elimination Act, which proposes to increase the eligibility resource limits for Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits. Currently, individuals are limited to $2,000 in countable resources and couples to $3,000. The resolution emphasizes that these limits have not been adjusted for inflation since 1989, creating significant barriers for disabled individuals and the elderly seeking financial stability. By increasing the resource limit to $10,000 for individuals and $20,000 for couples, the bill aims to alleviate these constraints and provide better support for the affected populations.

Sentiment

The general sentiment surrounding HR515 is one of support, with many viewing it as a necessary update to existing SSI regulations that are no longer suited to contemporary economic conditions. Advocates argue that the current limits unjustly penalize individuals for attempting to save and improve their financial situations. The bipartisan nature of Senate Bill 2767, which HR515 seeks to urge Congress to pass, has also contributed to the positive sentiment, suggesting a collaborative effort to address a crucial issue affecting vulnerable populations.

Contention

While there is strong support for HR515, some potential contention may arise regarding the funding implications of increasing SSI resource limits. Concerns may be voiced about the impact of these changes on the Social Security Administration’s budget and whether such adjustments could lead to increased administrative burdens. Nonetheless, proponents maintain that higher resource limits could actually reduce administrative costs related to payment errors and create a more efficient system overall.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

PA SB2767

SSI Savings Penalty Elimination Act

PA HCR46

Urging The United States Congress To Adopt The Social Security 2100 Act.

PA HR35

Urging The United States Congress To Adopt The Social Security 2100 Act.

PA SCR109

Urging The United States Congress To Adopt The Social Security 2100 Act.

PA SR91

Urging The United States Congress To Adopt The Social Security 2100 Act.

PA HB2540

SSI Savings Penalty Elimination Act

PA SB1234

SSI Savings Penalty Elimination Act

PA HR127

Urging the Congress of the United States to raise income limits for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program and either extend or make permanent Emergency Allotments.

PA HB5408

SSI Savings Penalty Elimination Act

PA SB73

Eliminating the Marriage Penalty in SSI Act or EMPSAThis bill excludes a spouse's income and resources when determining eligibility for Supplemental Security Income (SSI), and disregards marital status when calculating the SSI benefit amount, for an adult who has a diagnosed intellectual or developmental disability. (SSI is a federal income supplement program designed to help aged, blind, and disabled individuals with limited income and resources meet basic needs.)

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