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RKS 12

“Para expresar el respaldo de la Asamblea Legislativa del Estado Libre Asociado de Puerto Rico al proyecto de ley federal H.R. 4814, el extendería los beneficios del programa de Seguridad de Ingreso Suplementario (SSI) a los residentes de Puerto Rico, Guam, Samoa Americana y las Islas Vírgenes; y para otros fines relacionados.”

2025-2028 Session

Puerto Rico legislature endorses federal legislation extending SSI supplemental income benefits to U.S. territories' elderly, blind, and disabled residents.

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Bill Summary · RKS 12

Legislative bill overview

Bill RKS 12 is a resolution expressing the Puerto Rico Legislative Assembly's support for the federal H.R. 4814, which would extend Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits to residents of Puerto Rico, Guam, American Samoa, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. This is a symbolic measure endorsing existing federal legislation rather than creating new local law.

Why is this important

SSI currently excludes residents of U.S. territories, creating significant disparities in social safety net coverage for vulnerable populations (elderly, blind, and disabled individuals). Extending SSI would provide critical income support to thousands of low-income territory residents, potentially reducing poverty and improving access to essential services in economically disadvantaged communities.

Potential points of contention

  • Federal funding implications: Extending SSI to territories would require substantial federal appropriations; concerns exist about whether Congress will fund this adequately or offset costs elsewhere
  • Local economic impact uncertainty: Questions remain about how increased federal benefits would affect local economies, cost of living adjustments, and existing local assistance programs
  • Implementation timeline and conditions: Unclear whether extension would be immediate or phased, and what administrative requirements territories must meet to receive funding

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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