H.R.174 - Consequences for Social Security Fraud Act (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R. 174, the "Consequences for Social Security Fraud Act," aims to amend the Immigration and Nationality Act. The bill seeks to make aliens convicted of or who have committed Social Security fraud inadmissible to the United States and deportable if they are already present. This includes offenses related to Social Security account numbers, cards, identification document fraud, and fraud related to COVID-19 relief programs.
Expected Effects
If enacted, H.R. 174 would expand the grounds for inadmissibility and deportation under immigration law. Aliens found guilty of Social Security fraud or related offenses would face exclusion from or removal from the United States. This could potentially deter such fraudulent activities and protect the integrity of Social Security programs and identification systems.
Potential Benefits
- Strengthens the integrity of the Social Security system by deterring fraud.
- Reduces the potential burden on taxpayers by preventing fraudulent claims.
- Enhances national security by preventing the misuse of identification documents.
- Reinforces the rule of law by holding individuals accountable for their actions.
- Potentially reduces fraud related to COVID-19 relief programs.
Potential Disadvantages
- May lead to the deportation of individuals who have become integrated into American society.
- Could disproportionately affect certain immigrant communities.
- May strain resources for immigration enforcement and deportation proceedings.
- Could face legal challenges based on due process or equal protection grounds.
- May not significantly deter Social Security fraud, as other factors may contribute to such activities.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill's constitutionality is rooted in the power of Congress to regulate immigration, as outlined in Article I, Section 8, Clause 4, which grants Congress the power to establish a uniform Rule of Naturalization. The Fifth Amendment's due process clause could be relevant if deportation proceedings are not conducted fairly. The Eighth Amendment, prohibiting cruel and unusual punishment, is unlikely to be applicable in this scenario.
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).