US HB7228

H.R. 7228 - Maintain Access to Vital Social Security Services Act of 2026

• SSA must maintain field office staffing at no less than January 1, 2025 levels and operate sufficient offices to provide comprehensive, accessible services while minimizing wait times for both scheduled and walk-in visitors

• Closing, consolidating, or reducing services at any field office requires 180 days advance public notice, congressional notification, and at least two public hearings in the affected area

• Inspector General approval is required before any field office closure or service reduction can take effect, including review of any health and safety justifications made by the Commissioner

• Social Security Advisory Board recommendations must now account for impacts of field office closures on individuals with disabilities, language barriers, or other vulnerable populations

• Commissioner must submit a report to Congress within 180 days detailing all field office closures over the previous 5 years, GSA's role in those decisions, and a 10-year plan to maintain service levels