4 versions

CosmeticWhat changed in REFERRED IN SENATEcompared with ENGROSSED IN HOUSE (Dec 1, 2025)

Technical corrections only. The changes between v3 and v4 primarily involve updating the attestation information to include the Clerk's name and noting the bill's referral to the Senate. No substantive policy changes were made to the text of the bill.

H.R. 5348119th CongressIntroduced Sep 15, 2025

Social Security Child Protection Act of 2025

Passed HouseSocial WelfareSubstantive

View bill text

Sponsor: Rep. Smucker, Lloyd [R-PA-11]
Committees: Finance Committee (primary)
Last action: Dec 2, 2025

Bottom line

The bill establishes a specific process for young children to receive a new Social Security number if their original card is compromised by loss or theft during delivery, aiming to prevent early-life identity theft.

What it actually does

This bill amends the Social Security Act to allow the Commissioner of Social Security to issue a new Social Security account number (SSAN) to a child under the age of 14. This reissuance is permitted if a parent or guardian demonstrates, under penalty of perjury, that the child's original social security card was lost or stolen during its transmission, thereby compromising the confidentiality of the SSAN.

Proponents argue

Supporters argue that this bill provides crucial protection for vulnerable children against identity theft, which can have devastating and long-lasting financial consequences if their Social Security number is compromised at a young age. It offers a necessary remedy for a specific, identifiable risk that current law does not adequately address.

Opponents contend

Critics might raise concerns about the administrative burden this new process could place on the Social Security Administration (SSA) and the resources required to verify claims and issue new numbers. While the 'penalty of perjury' clause is a safeguard, there could be apprehension about potential for abuse or the complexities of managing multiple SSANs for a single individual in SSA records.

The bill is exceptionally short and clearly written, making it very accessible for any reader to understand its provisions and implications quickly.

Section 2(a)

Reissuance of Social Security Account Numbers to Young Children

prominently featuredstraightforward

This provision amends Section 205(c)(2)(B) of the Social Security Act by adding a new clause (iii). It mandates that the Commissioner of Social Security issue a new Social Security account number to a child under 14 years old if a parent or guardian provides evidence, under penalty of perjury, that the original social security card was lost or stolen during transmission, compromising the number's confidentiality. The Commissioner is also required to note this information in the child's records.

GroupImpactMechanismScale

GroupChildren under 14 years oldImpactPositive, provides a mechanism to mitigate identity theft risk.MechanismAllows for the reissuance of a new Social Security number if the original is compromised during card transmission.ScaleIndividual, but potentially affects many children over time.

GroupParents and legal guardiansImpactPositive, empowers them to protect their child's identity.MechanismGrants them the ability to request a new SSN for their child under specific circumstances.ScaleIndividual.

GroupSocial Security Administration (SSA)ImpactIncreased administrative workload.MechanismRequires the SSA to establish procedures for verifying claims, issuing new SSNs, and updating records.ScaleOperational.

Supporters argue

Proponents argue that this provision closes a critical loophole, offering a vital safeguard for children who are particularly vulnerable to identity theft. Early compromise of an SSN can lead to years of financial and credit issues, and this bill provides a clear, actionable path for parents to protect their children's future.

Critics contend

Opponents might contend that while well-intentioned, this provision could create an administrative burden for the SSA, potentially diverting resources from other critical services. Concerns could also be raised about the verification process, even with the 'penalty of perjury' requirement, and the potential for increased complexity in maintaining accurate Social Security records.

Tradeoffs

The bill balances the imperative to protect children from identity theft against the administrative complexities and potential costs associated with reissuing Social Security numbers. It also navigates the tension between providing a necessary remedy and ensuring the integrity and stability of the SSN system through strict evidentiary requirements.

About this analysis. AI-Generated from the official bill text and available committee reports. Gaps in available data are noted explicitly. Verify important details with the official Congress.gov record.