In Direct Response to Constituent Concerns, Slotkin Introduces Bipartisan Bill to Support Individuals with Disabilities, Families Caring for Them

WASHINGTON — U.S. Rep. Elissa Slotkin (MI-08) along with Rep. Raúl Grijalva (AZ-03) introduced the Supplemental Security Income Restoration Act today, a bill that makes common-sense but impactful adjustments to the Supplemental Security Income (SSI) program, which provides assistance to disabled or elderly individuals, but has gone largely unchanged since 1972.

Constituents in the autism advocacy community raised with Slotkin that the SSI program's outdated restrictions currently prevent individuals with disabilities, and families caring for them, from accessing benefits the program is intended to provide. For instance, because the program has not kept pace with inflation, individuals with more than $2,000 in their savings account would not be eligible for benefits under this program.

"This issue is one I have heard about directly from autism advocates and families in our district, particularly parents preparing for children with disabilities to transition into adulthood," Rep. Elissa Slotkin said. "I'm so proud to introduce a bill that can help ease the burden these restrictions are currently imposing on families trying to access benefits through this program. This bill brings the Supplemental Security Income (SSI) program's outdated limits up to speed with inflation -- a common-sense adjustment that will make a huge difference for individuals and families caring for someone with disabilities."

"Parents and guardians of special needs children face huge challenges every day, in caring for them and facing the stress of trying to ensure a secure future for them -- they do not need the additional challenge of antiquated restrictions," said Craig Brown and Linda Ronan Brown, parents of children with special needs in Clarkston, MI. "This bill contains common sense changes recognizing that current SSI levels don't come close to meeting basic needs for people with disabilities or the elderly. For families, our reality is that we can't afford to pay for all the needs our loved ones with disabilities have, but we can help – if we are allowed to, without endangering their SSI and Medicaid. Being able to save $10,000 means they have a chance to handle financial challenges if food stamps are cancelled, if they need dental work, or if new glasses or a hearing aid not covered by Medicaid. The current $2,000 asset limit makes it virtually impossible for my sons, who have special needs, to own their own home and be able to save for property taxes or major repairs and maintenance."

"Autism Alliance of Michigan is a statewide professional organization serving individuals with Autism and Related Disabilities across the lifespan. The limitation on SSI has been a barrier for so many of our citizens living with disability in their pursuit of employment options. We applaud Representative Slotkin for introducing this important legislation and encourage others to support her efforts moving it forward," said Colleen Allen, President and CEO.

The Supplemental Security Income Restoration Act:

• Updates the amount individuals can earn from work to $399 a month, to encourage work from those who are able.
• Updates the amount of general income a person can make to $123 per month (general income is money received through means other than work).
• Repeals the marriage penalty and updates the amount of resources a person or couple can have to $10,000 and $20,000 respectively, so people can save for emergencies.
• Repeals the penalty for financial, food, and housing support from family.
• This bill streamlines and simplifies the claims process and restores a program that plays a pivotal role in the security of millions of Americans including over a million children.