SSI is key to lift people with disabilities out of poverty.
NCD 22 {“Disparate Treatment of Puerto Rico Residents with Disabilities in Federal Programs and Benefits,” National Council on Disability (An independent federal agency making recommendations to the President and Congress). Published May 25, 2022, Accessed July 20, 2023. ncd.gov/publications/2022/disparate-treatment-puerto-rico-residents-disabilities-federal-programs.}–CPSW–TW
The consequences of denying SSI to U.S. citizens with disabilities residing in Puerto Rico has been and continues to be catastrophic. PWDs already experience higher rates of poverty than their nondisabled peers, and when one adds lower income benefits it places them in a cycle of extreme poverty they will likely never escape. This disparity negatively impacts the Puerto Rican economy, as it limits funds to stimulate economic development and financial activity. In addition, the implications for U.S. citizens who receive SSI on the mainland and move to Puerto Rico are punitive, as their SSI benefits are canceled once a PWD changes residency.