This legislation establishes an immediate moratorium on the closure, consolidation, or any new limitation of public access to Social Security Administration field offices, hearing offices, and resident stations. This prohibition includes all actions taken by the Commissioner of Social Security, with the sole exception of temporary closures due to emergencies. The moratorium will remain in effect until 180 days after the Commissioner submits a comprehensive report to specific congressional committees.

The required report, which cannot be submitted earlier than January 21, 2029, must outline and justify the process for selecting offices for closure or consolidation. It must include an analysis of the criteria used, a description of how relevant factors like transportation and communication burdens for elderly and disabled individuals were considered, and a detailed cost-benefit analysis. This analysis must account for anticipated savings, replacement costs for lost services, effects on employees, and how lost access will be replaced.

After the moratorium concludes, the bill amends the Social Security Act to implement permanent, rigorous requirements for any future office closures, consolidations, or access limitations. These requirements mandate that the Commissioner provide effective public notice at least 120 days in advance, including information on how lost access will be replaced. Additionally, at least two public hearings must be conducted between 30 and 45 days before the proposed action, allowing for public input and requiring the Commissioner to present detailed justifications.

Furthermore, the Commissioner must submit a detailed final report to Congress and affected Members at least 30 days prior to any action, summarizing justifications, hearing findings, and the final decision. The bill also establishes a process for individuals to appeal proposed closures if they can demonstrate the decision is arbitrary or unlawful. Crucially, any future actions cannot result in the total number of Social Security field and hearing offices falling below the number that existed on January 20, 2025, ensuring a baseline level of service access.