In a significant move, the Biden administration has urged Congress to prioritize funding for election security and presidential transition efforts as lawmakers face challenges in finalizing a fiscal 2025 government funding deal. With the fiscal year commencing on October 1, there is mounting pressure to secure a continuing resolution (CR) to maintain government operations beyond September. On September 5, the administration reiterated its comprehensive budget request for the Social Security Administration (SSA), highlighting the need for sustained financial support.
Historically, each August, the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) presents Congress with a list of “budget anomalies,” detailing essential funding requests to be included in a short-term CR. These anomalies typically address the renewal of spending authorities and facilitate the continuation of critical government programs. The 30-page report submitted by OMB last week included a notable request: funding for the SSA at the level proposed in Biden’s fiscal 2025 budget, which amounts to $15.4 billion. This contrasts with the current annual appropriation of $14.2 billion, which would remain unchanged under a standard continuing resolution.
The administration pointed out that without increased funding, SSA is likely to encounter staffing shortages not seen in over 50 years. The memo specified that the agency needs the proposed budget rate to enhance customer service and manage increasing workloads efficiently. OMB emphasized the adverse effects of stagnant funding, which would likely lead to deteriorating IT support, reduced operating hours at field offices, and extended wait times for seniors and individuals with disabilities.
Unlike many federal agencies, the SSA’s operational funding is primarily sourced from federal payroll taxes rather than the U.S. Treasury. This structure changed in the late 1980s when then-President George H.W. Bush shifted it into the discretionary budget, resulting in its gradual decline to below 1% of benefit outlays currently. Biden’s funding request remains more robust than the proposed figures from both chambers of Congress. The Republican-led House aims to cut $450 million from current SSA funding, while the Senate proposes a $500 million increase.
In addition to the SSA funding anomaly, the administration’s proposal encompasses provisions to ensure that the Presidential Election Campaign Fund and the presidential transition activities of both the White House and the General Services Administration receive continued financing ahead of the pivotal 2024 election. The White House has also requested an additional $24 million for the Office of Personnel Management to prepare for the upcoming Postal Service Health Benefits Program set to launch this fall.
In summary, the Biden administration’s budget anomalies request underscores the critical need for continued funding for the SSA and election security as Congress navigates the complexities of government financing. The administration’s proactive stance aims to ensure essential services and operations remain intact during a potentially tumultuous budget period. Amidst these discussions, it remains crucial for lawmakers to prioritize effective governance and the welfare of citizens reliant on these essential services.
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