Bill would let disabled adults keep Social Security if they marry
In committeeH.R. 1389Latest action
Sponsor: Jimmy Panetta · Representative · CA
AIDecoded by AI · checked against the recordRead the official text
Official title: Marriage Equality for Disabled Adults Act
119th Congress
Topics: Family & community
Introduced:
Read the official bill on Congress.govIn plain words
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HR 1389 would end the rule that strips Social Security disability benefits from Disabled Adult Children who get married.
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What does this do?
HR 1389 would remove the marriage restriction that currently cuts off Social Security benefits for Disabled Adult Children, a group that became disabled before age 22 and receives benefits through a parent's work record. The bill would also block a spouse's income and assets from being counted against the disabled person's SSI eligibility. It includes protections to prevent marriage from triggering a loss of Medicaid coverage tied to SSI.
Who does it affect?
Adults with disabilities who became disabled before age 22 and collect benefits based on a parent's Social Security record are directly affected. Their potential spouses and families who have avoided marriage to protect benefits are also affected.
Why does it matter?
Under current law, marriage ends Disabled Adult Child benefits and can reduce or eliminate SSI by counting a spouse's finances, leaving some disabled adults effectively choosing between marriage and income support. This bill would remove those financial consequences of marriage for that specific group, which could change decisions around if and when they marry.
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Where does it stand?
- IntroducedFeb 14, 2025
- House committeeYou are here · Feb 14, 2025
- House vote
- Senate
- The president's desk
Right now: a House committee is reviewing it. If the Senate changes it, it goes back to the House before reaching the president.
Latest action: — Referred to the Committee on Ways and Means, and in addition to the Committee on Energy and Commerce, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned.