Protecting Americans’ Social Security Data Act

This bill bars political appointees and special government employees from accessing Social Security Administration systems containing personal information about beneficiaries, including systems that issue Social Security numbers or determine eligibility for benefits. It creates a private right of action allowing individuals to sue for damages if their information is negligently accessed or disclosed in violation of these rules, with a two-year deadline from discovery. The bill requires the Social Security Administration to notify affected individuals when their data is accessed or disclosed in violation of these provisions, and directs the Inspector General to investigate and report to Congress on unauthorized access incidents. It also requires the Social Security Administration to issue privacy regulations and directs the Government Accountability Office to study the matter and provide interim reports. Rep. John Larson [D-CT] introduced the bill with 152 Democratic cosponsors and no Republican cosponsors.

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Cosponsors (152)