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House passes measure to restore SSA demonstration authority for disability insurance
Summary
The House passed HR 88 84 on July 23, 2026, reauthorizing the Social Security Administration's demonstration authority for the disability insurance program. Supporters said pilots will help beneficiaries return to work; opponents warned the bill gives the administration broad discretion and risks benefit reductions.
The House of Representatives passed HR 88 84 on July 23, 2026, a bill to amend title 2 of the Social Security Act and reauthorize demonstration authority for the disability insurance program. The final electronic tally on passage was announced as 232 yeas to 188 nays.
Supporters, including the bill manager from Missouri, said the measure restores authority for the Social Security Administration to run voluntary demonstration projects intended to help people on Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) return to work. "I rise in support of HR 88 84, the removing barriers to work for disabled Americans act," the manager said on the floor, arguing the bill would close the gap between those who want to work and those who actually return to the workforce.
Opponents countered that the bill grants broad experimental authority with insufficient protections for beneficiaries. The gentlewoman from California said the bill "won't lower costs, won't improve customer service, and won't make it easier for people with disabilities to access the benefits they've earned," and warned that demonstrations could lead to cuts in earned SSDI benefits without meaningful guardrails.
Sponsor Representative Austin Scott described the proposal as voluntary and targeted to help veterans and other beneficiaries who choose to participate. "It is voluntary," he said on the floor, repeating that participation is not required. He urged bipartisan support and pointed to the potential dignity of work for participants.
The House adopted the bill as amended under the rule for debate; the motion to reconsider was laid on the table following the vote. The bill will proceed to any next procedural steps as required by House rules.
