Bill · H.R. 8478· House(119-HR-8478)
RECON Act
- Introduced
- 4/23/2026
- Last activity
- 4/23/2026 — Referred to the House Committee on Ways and Means.
- Sponsored by
- Valerie Foushee
- Cosponsors
- None
- Introduced
- In Committee
What this bill would do
This bill, known as the "Respecting Every Claimant's appeal Options Now Act" or the "RECON Act," proposes changes to the Social Security Act. It aims to amend titles II and XVI to make the reconsideration review process optional. Under this proposal, the Commissioner would provide a hearing upon a person's request regarding an initial decision. The Commissioner would no longer be allowed to require a reconsideration of that initial decision before the hearing takes place. These changes would apply to decisions made at least one year after the act is enacted.
Yes· 3 of 4
Would people over 65 be better off under this?+5
By making the reconsideration step optional, seniors can access hearings faster to resolve benefits disputes.
Would households on low incomes be better off under this?+5
The bill facilitates quicker access to Social Security Title XVI benefits by removing mandatory administrative hurdles.
Would people with disabilities be better off under this?+5
The removal of mandatory reconsideration allows individuals seeking disability benefits to move more quickly to the hearing stage.
The opposite
No question was scored the opposite.
Who it would affect, and how
Potential Positive Impacts for People
- Removal of mandatory reconsideration steps: The bill states that the Commissioner may not require reconsideration of an initial decision prior to a hearing (Section 2, subsection a and b). This provides individuals the option to move directly to a hearing upon request.
Potential Negative Impacts for People
- Delayed implementation: The changes regarding initial decisions or determinations will not apply until one year after the date the Act is enacted (Section 2, subsection c).
Groups and Interests Ranking
Every group the model scored this bill for, from -10 to +10. Hover a score for the reason it gave.
- Demographic And Interest Groups
- Good For Low Income Households+5Good For People With Disabilities+5Good For Seniors+5
- Social Issues And Justice
- Improves Social Security+5
- 4/23/2026
- Referred to the House Committee on Ways and Means.
- Introduced in House