H.R.3509 - Supporting Our Surviving Spouses Act (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.3509, the Supporting Our Surviving Spouses Act, aims to eliminate the six-year statute of limitations on specific claims against the U.S. Government filed by survivors of Armed Forces members who died in the line of duty on or after September 11, 2001. The bill amends Section 3702(b)(1) of title 31, United States Code, to remove this time limitation for survivor benefits claims. This change would apply to claims filed on or after the enactment date of the Act.
Expected Effects
The primary effect of this bill is to provide an extended or unlimited timeframe for eligible survivors to file claims for benefits. This could result in increased financial support for surviving spouses and dependents who may have previously been unable to file claims due to the statute of limitations. Ultimately, it seeks to ease the financial burdens on families who have lost a member of the armed forces.
Potential Benefits
- Provides potentially unlimited time for surviving spouses to file claims, removing a significant barrier.
- Offers increased financial security for families who have lost a loved one in military service.
- Demonstrates government support and commitment to military families.
- Corrects a potential injustice by ensuring all eligible survivors can receive benefits regardless of a time constraint.
- May reduce stress and hardship for surviving families during difficult times.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential for increased government spending due to the removal of the statute of limitations.
- May create administrative challenges in processing claims filed many years after the event.
- Could potentially open the door for fraudulent claims, requiring stricter verification processes.
- May lead to legal challenges regarding the eligibility and validity of older claims.
- Possible need for additional resources to handle a potentially larger volume of claims.
Most Disadvantaged Areas:
Constitutional Alignment
The bill appears to align with the constitutional principle of providing for the common defense and promoting the general welfare, as stated in the Preamble. Specifically, by supporting the families of fallen service members, the government is arguably fulfilling its duty to care for those who have sacrificed for the nation. The bill falls under the legislative powers granted to Congress in Article I, Section 8, which includes the power to provide for the common defense and general welfare.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).