Sponsors
The bill extends full SSI benefits to eligible residents of Guam—boosting income for vulnerable people there—while increasing federal costs and adding administrative complexity that could delay benefit delivery.
Low-income residents of Guam — especially seniors and people with disabilities — become eligible for full federal SSI benefits, increasing their monthly income and removing prior territorial payment caps.
The Social Security Commissioner is given waiver authority to adapt SSI rules to Guam's unique circumstances, which should smooth implementation and improve access for territory residents.
Eligible Guam residents may face increased administrative complexity and potential delays in receiving SSI benefits as SSA implements new rules and waivers.
Extending SSI to Guam increases federal entitlement spending, raising budgetary costs that are ultimately borne by U.S. taxpayers.
Based on analysis of 2 sections of legislative text.
Adds Guam to SSI coverage and related statutory rules, removes prior territorial payment limits, and authorizes SSA waivers for Guam-specific implementation.
Introduced January 31, 2025 by James Moylan · Last progress January 31, 2025
Extends Supplemental Security Income (SSI) coverage to residents of Guam by changing several provisions of the Social Security Act and earlier 1972 amendments. It also gives the Social Security Commissioner limited authority to waive or adapt SSI rules for Guam to account for local circumstances. The change becomes effective on the first day of the first federal fiscal year that begins one year or more after the bill is enacted.