S.1807 - Timely and Accurate Benefits Act (119th Congress)
Summary
S.1807, the "Timely and Accurate Benefits Act," aims to reduce improper payments in federal benefit programs by requiring states to implement an Enhanced Income Identification and Verification Platform. This platform would use real-time data matching and applicant-permissioned deposit account data to verify income eligibility for various federal benefit programs. The bill defines "covered Federal benefit program" broadly, encompassing programs where eligibility or benefit amounts are income-based.
Expected Effects
The bill's enactment would likely lead to increased scrutiny of income verification for federal benefit recipients. States would need to invest in and implement the new verification platform within one year. This could result in some individuals being deemed ineligible or receiving reduced benefits due to more accurate income reporting.
Potential Benefits
- Reduced improper payments and fraud in federal benefit programs, leading to potential cost savings for taxpayers.
- More accurate distribution of benefits to those who are truly eligible, ensuring resources are directed to those most in need.
- Enhanced data matching and analytics capabilities, potentially improving the efficiency and effectiveness of government programs.
- Promotes fiscal responsibility by ensuring that federal funds are used appropriately and not wasted on improper payments.
- Could incentivize individuals to accurately report their income, fostering greater transparency and accountability.
Most Benefited Areas:
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential for increased administrative burden and costs for states in implementing and maintaining the new verification platform.
- Risk of errors or inaccuracies in data matching, leading to wrongful denial or reduction of benefits for eligible individuals.
- Privacy concerns related to the collection and analysis of applicant-permissioned deposit account data.
- Could disproportionately affect low-income individuals and families who rely on federal benefits, potentially creating hardship.
- Possible delays in benefit processing due to the enhanced verification process.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill's constitutional alignment is primarily related to Congress's power to tax and spend for the general welfare (Article I, Section 8). The bill aims to ensure that federal funds are spent efficiently and effectively on benefit programs. However, the potential impact on individual privacy and due process rights needs careful consideration. The requirement for applicant-permissioned data access could raise Fourth Amendment concerns if not implemented with appropriate safeguards.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).