H.R. 963: Protecting Social Security Act

This bill, titled the Protecting Social Security Act, proposes several measures aimed at ensuring the sustainability and accessibility of Social Security benefits for Americans. The key provisions include:

1. Social Security Field Offices

The bill mandates that there be a field office of the Social Security Administration in every county with a population exceeding 150,000. This is intended to improve access to Social Security services for individuals who may not be comfortable using online resources or phone services.

2. Addressing Insolvency of Trust Funds

The bill requires that if the Federal Old-Age and Survivors Insurance Trust Fund or the Federal Disability Insurance Trust Fund becomes financially insolvent, monthly appropriations will be made to ensure that these funds can meet their obligation to pay benefits.

3. Expedited Legislative Process for Solvency Bills

The bill introduces an expedited process for legislative measures designed to address the solvency of the Social Security funds. Key aspects include:

• Certification Requirement: The Commissioner of Social Security must certify to Congress if the trust funds are insufficient to pay benefits.
• Joint Introduction in Congress: Upon certification, a Social Security solvency bill must be jointly introduced in both the House and the Senate by their respective majority and minority leaders.
• Fast-Tracked Consideration: Committees are required to report the bill without amendments within five legislative days, and if they do not, they will be automatically discharged from further consideration.
• No Amendments Allowed: Once introduced, the bill cannot be amended, and all points of order against it are waived during the consideration process.
• Time Limits for Debate: Debate on the bill is limited, and a vote on passage will take place no later than 15 days after introduction in the House.

4. Social Security Solvency Bill Definition

The bill specifies that a "Social Security solvency bill" must ensure that individuals entitled to benefits will continue to receive full payments and must not increase taxes on anyone other than high-income individuals and corporations. Additionally, it cannot reduce benefits.

5. Coordination Between Houses of Congress

The bill outlines procedures for how the House and Senate will handle the introduction and passage of solvency bills, ensuring that if one chamber receives a bill from the other, it will follow a streamlined process to bring it to a vote quickly.

Overall, the Protecting Social Security Act aims to safeguard and enhance the Social Security program by improving access to services and ensuring that necessary funds are available to meet benefit obligations.

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