Policy Corner: June 30, 2023
Categories: Policy Corner Archives
Senators Announce Legislation to Allow People with Disabilities to Work without Losing Social Security Benefits
Last week, Senate Finance Committee Chairman Ron Wyden (D-Ore.) and nine co-sponsors introduced S.2196, bipartisan legislation to empower Americans with disabilities to work without losing out on Social Security (SS) benefits. The proposed legislation, Work Without Worry Act, addresses Americans who sustain or incur their disability before the age of 22 and are eligible for the Disabled Adult Child benefit (DAC), which is based on their parent’s Social Security earnings, in the same way that benefits of a child under age 18 would be. However, under current law, some may lose their DAC benefits if they try to work. These benefits are often higher than any benefit they may qualify on their own.
S. 2196 prevents an individual who chooses to work from losing his/her Social Security DAC benefit, if they have an eligible medical condition that began before age 22. Co-sponsors include Senators Bill Cassidy (R-La.), Ted Budd (R-N.C.), Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.), Patty Murray (D-Wash), Bernard Sanders (I-Vt.), Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.), Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), and Sherrod Brown (D-Ohio). Several national disability organizations have endorsed the legislation.
House and Senate Recess for Independence Day
Both the House of Representatives and Senate are on recess next week for Independence Day, the federal holiday commemorating the Declaration of Independence. This is always a good time to engage with representatives/senators as they make the rounds in their districts to celebrate the holiday. Many will be participating in 4th of July parades and fairs. BIAA wishes everyone an enjoyable and safe holiday.