U.S. Representative Greg Steube from Florida has reintroduced the Valid Benefits Act, aiming to ensure federal agencies verify the eligibility of individuals aged 105 and older for federal benefits. This legislative effort is intended to safeguard Social Security and Medicare funds from misuse.
Rep. Steube stated, “No American who has paid into Social Security and Medicare should see their benefits compromised by scam artists or incompetent bureaucrats.” He emphasized the importance of accurate records after a review revealed that approximately 12 million Americans were incorrectly listed as being 120 years old or more. This discrepancy highlighted the need for improved verification processes to prevent financial mismanagement, especially with the national debt nearing $37 trillion.
The legislation was first introduced by Rep. Steube in 2019 and builds on initiatives by the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) to reduce fraud and waste within federal systems. The bill mandates that eligibility for federal benefits be verified for those who have reached or exceeded 105 years of age.
“With millions of seniors relying on Social Security and Medicare… it is important to make sure every dollar is spent the right way with no room for malfeasance or error,” added Rep. Steube, underlining his commitment to protecting retirement programs and beneficiaries through rigorous verification measures.
