Purple Heart Freedom to Work Act

12/15/2023, 3:56 PM

Summary of Bill HR 1841

The Purple Heart Freedom to Work Act, also known as Bill 118 hr 1841, is a piece of legislation currently being considered by the US Congress. The purpose of this bill is to provide certain benefits to individuals who have been awarded the Purple Heart medal for being wounded or killed in combat while serving in the United States Armed Forces.

If passed, the Purple Heart Freedom to Work Act would require federal agencies to give preference to Purple Heart recipients when hiring for federal jobs. This preference would apply to both competitive and excepted service positions, giving these individuals a leg up in the hiring process.

Additionally, the bill would require federal agencies to establish a program to provide career counseling and job placement assistance to Purple Heart recipients. This program would help these individuals transition back into civilian life and find meaningful employment opportunities. Overall, the Purple Heart Freedom to Work Act aims to honor the sacrifices made by Purple Heart recipients and help them succeed in the workforce after their military service. It is currently being reviewed by Congress and may be voted on in the near future.

Congressional Summary of HR 1841

Purple Heart Freedom to Work Act

This bill increases the monthly income limit that is used to determine whether certain Purple Heart recipients are eligible for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits.

Specifically, when making such determinations with respect to Purple Heart recipients who are entitled to SSDI benefits based on combat-related injuries, the Social Security Administration must use the limit that applies to individuals who are blind rather than the lower limit that applies to other SSDI recipients. In addition, the bill phases out SSDI benefits for these Purple Heart recipients, with benefits reduced by $1 for every $4 of earnings in excess of the limit.

Current Status of Bill HR 1841

Bill HR 1841 is currently in the status of Bill Introduced since March 28, 2023. Bill HR 1841 was introduced during Congress 118 and was introduced to the House on March 28, 2023.  Bill HR 1841's most recent activity was Referred to the House Committee on Ways and Means. as of March 28, 2023

Bipartisan Support of Bill HR 1841

Total Number of Sponsors
1
Democrat Sponsors
0
Republican Sponsors
1
Unaffiliated Sponsors
0
Total Number of Cosponsors
56
Democrat Cosponsors
14
Republican Cosponsors
42
Unaffiliated Cosponsors
0

Policy Area and Potential Impact of Bill HR 1841

Primary Policy Focus

Social Welfare

Alternate Title(s) of Bill HR 1841

Purple Heart Freedom to Work ActPurple Heart Freedom to Work ActTo amend title II of the Social Security Act to establish a disability benefit offset for Purple Heart recipients, and for other purposes.
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