BURDEN Act

The BURDEN Act would require Members of Congress to certify, on a monthly basis, that they meet the same work-related conditions as beneficiaries of Medicaid and the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) in order to enroll in or remain enrolled in the Federal Employees Health Benefits Program (FEHBP). Specifically, a Member would have to (1) certify monthly that they have demonstrated “community engagement” for Medicaid purposes (as defined in section 1902(xx)(2) of the Social Security Act) and (2) certify monthly that they have complied with all SNAP work requirements as if they were part of a SNAP household. The certification would be submitted to the Director of the Office of Personnel Management (OPM); without timely certifications, a Member could not enroll in FEHB health plans. The bill names the act the BURDEN Act (also called the Bringing Unfair Reporting Duties to Electeds Now Act).