Pennsylvania 2025-2026 Regular Session

Pennsylvania House Bill HR397

Introduced
1/26/26  

Caption

Urging the Congress of the United States to pass H.R. 2540, the SSI Savings Penalty Elimination Act, and increase resource limits for Supplemental Security Income.

Impact

The implications of HR397 on state laws could be significant, particularly for individuals with disabilities. By advocating for higher resource limits, the bill seeks to create a supportive framework that enables SSI recipients to save for various needs without jeopardizing their eligibility for benefits. This legislative action might encourage states to align their own policies with the federal initiative, thereby enhancing the financial security of vulnerable populations. If enacted, it would also lead to a reevaluation of state-level support programs to complement the federal guidelines.

Summary

HR397 urges the Congress of the United States to pass H.R. 2540, known as the SSI Savings Penalty Elimination Act. This bill aims to eliminate the penalty that prevents individuals receiving Supplemental Security Income (SSI) from saving more than a limited amount of resources. Proponents of the bill argue that increasing the resource limits for SSI beneficiaries will allow those living with disabilities to achieve greater financial stability and ensure they can adequately plan for emergencies without fear of losing their benefits.

Contention

Discussion surrounding HR397 highlights points of contention primarily focused on balancing the need for economic relief for SSI recipients with concerns regarding potential increases in program costs. Critics may argue that raising resource limits could encourage some individuals to avoid seeking employment, potentially impacting workforce participation. However, supporters counter that increased asset limits empower beneficiaries to save and contribute to the economy, creating a more inclusive approach for those living with disabilities.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

PA SR83

Urging the Congress of the United States to adopt H.R. 1876, the "Keeping Our Field Offices Open Act," H.R. 1877, the "Protecting Americans' Social Security Data Act," and S. 770, the "Social Security Expansion Act."

PA HR241

Urging the Congress of the United States to adopt H.R. 1876, the "Keeping Our Field Offices Open Act," H.R. 1877, the "Protecting Americans' Social Security Data Act," and S. 770, the "Social Security Expansion 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.)

PA HB2540

SSI Savings Penalty Elimination Act

PA SB1234

SSI Savings Penalty Elimination Act

PA LD834

An Act to Update the State Supplement to Supplemental Security Income

PA HB646

Relating To Supplemental Security Income.

PA HB646

Relating To Supplemental Security Income.

PA HR350

Urging the President and Congress of the United States to maintain funding for the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program known as LIHEAP.

PA SB797

Relating To Supplemental Security Income.

Similar Bills

CA SB242

Medicare supplement coverage: open enrollment periods.

MD SB134

Medicare Supplement Policies - Issuance - Requirements

MD HB275

Medicare Supplement Policies - Issuance - Requirements

TX HB1474

Relating to the prohibited retail sale and provision to minors of certain over-the-counter weight loss drugs and dietary supplements; providing a civil penalty.

TX SB566

Relating to the prohibited retail sale and provision to minors of certain over-the-counter weight loss drugs and dietary supplements; providing a civil penalty.

TX HB2516

Relating to the eligibility of certain individuals younger than 65 years of age to purchase Medicare supplement benefit plans.

MN SF4184

Limitations requirements modification relating to Medicare-related coverage

HI SB963

Relating To The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program.