EMPSA

# EMPSA Bill Summary **What It Would Do** The Eliminating the Marriage Penalty in SSI Act (EMPSA) would change how the federal government determines eligibility and benefit amounts for Supplemental Security Income (SSI)—a program that provides cash assistance to low-income elderly, blind, and disabled individuals. Specifically, the bill would exclude a spouse's income and resources when deciding if an adult with an intellectual or developmental disability qualifies for SSI, and would not reduce their benefits based on marital status. Currently, when someone receiving SSI gets married, their spouse's income can affect their eligibility and reduce their benefits—a situation critics call the "marriage penalty." **Who It Affects** This bill targets working-age adults with intellectual or developmental disabilities who receive or could receive SSI.

It would primarily benefit disabled individuals who want to marry without losing their benefits or eligibility due to their spouse's income. The bill does not affect elderly or blind individuals receiving SSI. **Current Status** The bill (S 73) was introduced in the 119th Congress by Senator Jerry Moran (R-KS) and is currently in committee, meaning it has not yet been debated or voted on by the full Senate.