H.R.2228 - Survivor Benefits Fairness Act (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.2228, the "Survivor Benefits Fairness Act," aims to amend Title 38 of the United States Code, specifically Section 5112(b)(1), concerning the effective date of reductions or discontinuances of certain benefits administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs. The bill adjusts the effective date to the last day of the month during which a marriage, remarriage, or death occurs, rather than the last day of the month before. This change is intended to provide fairer treatment to survivors receiving compensation, dependency and indemnity compensation, or pension benefits.
Expected Effects
The primary effect of this bill is to change the timing of when benefit reductions or discontinuances take effect due to events like marriage, remarriage, or death. This adjustment ensures that beneficiaries receive benefits for the entire month in which the qualifying event occurs. This could lead to a slight increase in benefit payouts for that final month.
Potential Benefits
- Ensures survivors receive benefits for the entire month in which a qualifying event (marriage, remarriage, or death) occurs.
- Simplifies the administrative process by aligning the effective date with the month of the event.
- Provides a more equitable distribution of benefits, preventing potential financial hardship for survivors during the month of the event.
- Reduces potential confusion and appeals related to benefit termination dates.
- Demonstrates a commitment to supporting veterans' families and survivors.
Most Benefited Areas:
Potential Disadvantages
- May result in a slight increase in administrative costs due to the extended benefit period.
- Could potentially create minor complexities in cases where the exact date of the qualifying event is difficult to ascertain.
- The financial impact is likely minimal, but it could add to the overall budget of the Department of Veterans Affairs.
- Some may argue that this change is unnecessary and could lead to further adjustments to benefit programs.
- There are no clear disadvantages to the American people.
Constitutional Alignment
This bill appears to align with the general welfare clause of the Constitution, as it seeks to provide fairer treatment to veterans' survivors. Specifically, the bill amends Title 38 of the U.S. Code, which falls under the legislative powers granted to Congress in Article I, Section 8, to provide for the common defense and general welfare of the United States. There are no apparent constitutional conflicts.
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).