This policy change, which had been slated for release as early as December, would have redefined how the Social Security Administration (SSA) assesses disability claims, particularly by removing or limiting the role of age in the eligibility process. Such a move would have disproportionately affected older Americans, many of whom face significant barriers to re-entering the workforce. However, following considerable opposition from lawmakers, advocacy groups, and the public, the administration has now abandoned the proposal.
Proposed Rule and Its Potential Impact
According to The Washington Post, the rule was set to dramatically alter the way the SSA evaluates disability claims. Traditionally, applicants’ age has been an important factor in determining whether they are eligible for benefits. This is particularly relevant for those aged 50 or older, who are often considered less able to transition to different kinds of work due to age-related challenges.
Had the rule been implemented, it would have restricted the role of age in eligibility decisions, making it harder for some individuals to qualify. Notably, the change could have affected as many as 750,000 people over the next decade, with many facing the prospect of losing their benefits. Furthermore, the policy was expected to reduce the number of eligible widows and children by up to 80,000, as fewer people would have qualified for benefits due to the new restrictions.
The move was widely criticised by lawmakers, particularly Democrats, who expressed concerns about the potential harm to vulnerable populations. Over 160 House Democrats signed a letter urging SSA Commissioner Frank Bisignano to reconsider the rule, citing the potentially devastating effects on American families. This letter, alongside mounting opposition from disability advocacy groups, contributed to the administration’s decision to reconsider the proposal.
Reactions and White House Response
The decision to abandon the rule has drawn mixed reactions. On the one hand, disability advocates have welcomed the news, with Rebecca Vallas, CEO of the National Academy of Social Insurance, expressing her relief at the administration’s retreat. In a statement, Vallas praised SSA Commissioner Bisignano for “moving away from the proposal,” and hoped the agency would now focus on strengthening Social Security’s disability programmes.
On the other hand, some Republican lawmakers and administration supporters have criticised the decision, arguing that reform of Social Security is necessary to ensure the long-term sustainability of the programme. They suggest that modernising eligibility criteria is crucial for ensuring that benefits are targeted at those who truly need them.
The White House has remained somewhat detached from the controversy. A spokesperson stated that despite media speculation, President Trump had not seen the proposed rule, and reiterated the administration’s commitment to protecting Social Security benefits. “President Trump remains fully committed to protecting and strengthening Social Security while making it easier for millions of Americans to engage with the Social Security Administration,” the spokesperson added.
This decision marks a significant turning point in the ongoing debate over Social Security reform. While the proposed rule may have been shelved for now, discussions around how to ensure the programme’s future viability are likely to continue, with policymakers on both sides of the aisle weighing in on the issue.
