The SSI Restoration Act will finally modernize this lifeline by increasing benefit levels, updating outdated asset limits, and eliminating punitive rules that trap people in poverty.
Support legislation to modernize and strengthen Supplemental Security Income by increasing benefit levels, updating asset limits, and removing punitive rules.
Occurrences
Evidence
Representative Adelita Grijalva (D-Ariz.), alongside Senator Elizabeth Warren, Rep. Jan Schakowsky, and Rep. James Moylan, led 30 lawmakers in introducing the Supplemental Security Income (SSI) Restoration Act. The press release says the bill would expand benefits eligibility, increase cash payments, and fix rules that currently penalize Americans for trying to save money. Grijalva said the bill would modernize SSI by increasing benefit levels, updating outdated asset limits, and eliminating punitive rules.
The background sheet states that the SSI Restoration Act 'modernizes and improves SSI by streamlining and simplifying the claiming process, expanding the resource and income limits, and eliminating punitive reductions in benefits.' It also lists specific changes including updating the asset limit, increasing the benefit rate, and repealing punitive penalties.
Assessments
The promise was to support legislation to modernize and strengthen SSI, not necessarily to secure enactment. In office, Grijalva led introduction of the SSI Restoration Act with provisions matching the promise: higher benefit levels, updated asset/resource limits, and removal of punitive rules. The available evidence shows legislative support and sponsorship/leadership during the same federal term, though not enactment into law.