WASHINGTON— The House passed H.R. 8884, the Removing Barriers to Work for Disabled Americans Act, led by Rep. Austin Scott (R-Ga.), to help the Social Security Administration (SSA) test better ways for Americans with disabilities to enter or return to the workforce without putting their income at risk.

“Work is about more than a paycheck. It provides purpose, independence, and dignity.” Chairwoman McClain (R-Mich.) said. “Our laws should open doors for Americans who want that opportunity instead of putting obstacles in their way.”

“The Removing Barriers to Work for Disabled Americans Act is about helping disabled Americans pursue opportunities without the fear of losing the benefits that help them live with dignity,” Rep. Scott said. “This bill would allow the Social Security Administration to pursue scoped demonstration programs while ensuring voluntary participants’ overall income is not reduced, giving disabled Americans the chance to build the future they want,”

The legislation reauthorizes SSA’s authority to conduct voluntary demonstration projects that test alternative return-to-work policies. Participants may withdraw at any time and cannot lose total income because of their participation.