H.R. 8112: Preserving Social Security and Medicare for Citizens Act of 2026

This bill, known as the Preserving Social Security and Medicare for Citizens Act of 2026, proposes several amendments to the Social Security Act, specifically targeting eligibility and tax policies regarding Social Security and Medicare benefits. Key provisions of the bill include:

Medicare Eligibility Changes

The bill seeks to amend the rules around who is eligible for Medicare benefits. Specifically, it would:

• Limit eligibility for Medicare benefits to individuals who meet specific requirements.
• Clarify that individuals who are entitled to benefits as of the date of the bill's enactment will not lose their eligibility even if they were not entitled at an earlier specified date.

Social Security Benefits Eligibility Changes

The legislation also proposes changes to Social Security benefits eligibility. It stipulates that:

• No monthly Social Security benefits will be paid to individuals unless they are either:
• A citizen or national of the United States.
• An alien who is lawfully admitted for permanent residence under existing immigration laws.
• This change would take effect for benefits starting after the enactment of this Act.

FICA Tax Expansion

Additionally, the bill includes provisions to amend the Federal Insurance Contributions Act (FICA) tax to cover more types of remuneration. Specifically, it aims to:

• Remove certain exemptions currently in place under the Internal Revenue Code, thereby expanding the base of income subject to the FICA tax.
• Implement these amendments for remuneration paid in taxable years that begin after the calendar year in which the Act is enacted.

Summary of Implications

The overarching intent of this bill appears to be focused on ensuring that Social Security and Medicare resources are preserved for eligible individuals, namely U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents. By tightening eligibility criteria and expanding tax revenue sources, the bill aims to address sustainability issues within these critical social programs.

Relevant Companies

None found