Rep. Panetta Reintroduces the Marriage Equality for Disabled Adults Act for Valentine's Day

Monterey, CA – On Valentine's Day, United States Representative Jimmy Panetta reintroduced the Marriage Equality for Disabled Adults Act, critical legislation that would eliminate outdated laws that force Disabled Adult Children (DACs) to choose between their right to marry and their access to essential Social Security and Medicaid benefits.  Rep. Zoe Lofgren (CA-18) co-leads this legislation.

Under current law, DAC beneficiaries, more than one million Americans with lifelong disabilities, lose their Social Security and Medicaid benefits if they marry a non-disabled person.  This antiquated rule strips individuals of their financial and healthcare security simply because they wish to build a life with their partner.  The Marriage Equality for Disabled Adults Act would repeal this unjust penalty and ensure that disabled individuals are not punished for choosing to marry.

“No American should have to choose between their happiness and their health care,” said Rep. Panetta.  “By reintroducing this legislation, we are standing up for the fundamental right to marry without fear of losing essential benefits. Every person, no matter their circumstances, deserves the dignity and freedom to build a life with their needed benefits and the person they love.”

“I thank my colleague, Rep. Jimmy Panetta, for listening to his constituent and authoring this legislation,” said Rep. Lofgren.  “Removing the requirement that disabled adult children must remain unmarried in order to qualify for lifetime benefits and healthcare coverage under Social Security is a smart, needed reform.”

The bill was inspired by Monterey County resident, Lori Long, who faced this very injustice.  After becoming engaged, Lori discovered that marriage would mean losing the benefits that allow her to live independently.  Determined to change the system, Lori approached Rep. Panetta’s office, helping to shape the legislation that would ensure others do not have to make the same heartbreaking choice.

The Marriage Equality for Disabled Adults Act includes the following key provisions:

• Eliminates the requirement that a DAC beneficiary remain unmarried to receive Social Security benefits.
• Ensures that DAC benefits are not revoked upon marriage.
• Modifies Social Security’s rules regarding common law marriages.
• Protects SSI and Medicaid eligibility for DACs who marry a non-disabled person.

###