Work & Welfare Chairman LaHood Opening Statement: Hearing with SSA Commissioner, Frank J. Bisignano

This was a hearing held by the Ways and Means Committee Republicans on June 25, 2025, featuring an opening statement by Chairman LaHood addressing SSA Commissioner Frank J. Bisignano. The discussion focused on the Social Security Administration's (SSA) customer service mission, particularly regarding the Supplemental Security Income (SSI) program and disability insurance. Chairman LaHood expressed concerns about recent SSA rule changes affecting SSI eligibility, which were estimated to cost taxpayers $40 billion without congressional approval. He emphasized the need to modernize the Ticket to Work program, which currently has low participation despite its goal to help disabled beneficiaries return to work. Additionally, the hearing touched on child welfare issues, specifically the challenges in tracking foster children receiving SSI or survivor benefits and the implementation of data exchanges between SSA and state child welfare agencies to improve accountability. The chairman highlighted ongoing efforts to ensure better oversight and data sharing to support vulnerable populations.