Sen. Kennedy Advocates for Permanent Data Sharing to Prevent Improper Payments

Senator John Kennedy from Louisiana recently hosted a celebration after Congress passed a bill to temporarily halt payments for deceased individuals. In a video posted on X, Kennedy mentioned that the Social Security Administration (SSA) keeps what’s known as the Death Master File, which lists deceased Americans. He highlighted that this essential information isn’t readily shared with other governmental bodies. Kennedy noted that he pushed for new legislation after realizing the SSA required Congressional permission to disseminate these details.

To build on the temporary data-sharing arrangement established by the Stop Improper Payments for Deaths Act, he introduced a follow-up bill aimed at making this sharing permanent.

“For years—in fact, literally years—I’ve focused on tackling welfare fraud, specifically instances where fraudsters exploit the identities of those who have passed away,” Kennedy explained. He pointed out a staggering figure: in 2023 alone, the federal government disbursed $1.3 billion to individuals who were no longer alive. That’s not just a small amount—it’s a billion dollars. A significant sum, indeed.

“The SSA has a comprehensive list of deceased individuals known as the Death Master File,” he continued. “Whenever someone passes away, their name is forwarded to the SSA, and that name enters this file.” 

As the video unfolded, Kennedy elaborated on the communication gaps between government departments:

“We found out that the Social Security Administration doesn’t share information about those on the Death Master File with other federal departments. It was a case of one agency not coordinating with another.” He recalled confronting the SSA, asking why they couldn’t collaborate with the Treasury Department and others to stop payments for deceased individuals. “They told me they needed Congress’s permission to share this crucial information. That’s how the list of deceased can slip through the cracks.”

He continued, “I didn’t get into an argument but simply pushed for passing the bill. A while back, I managed to pass the Stop Improper Payments for Deaths Act. This bill allowed the SSA to temporarily share vital information with the Treasury.”

“It was quite a challenge—an exhausting journey, really—but we got the temporary sharing arrangement in place, and it proved effective, of course. Since December 2023, it’s expected to have saved the government over $330 million in improper payments. This means we’ve stopped issuing funds to those who’ve passed away or anyone who might cash their checks.” 

Kennedy felt it was essential for Congress to secure a lasting agreement and decided to propose another bill to ensure this data-sharing would be permanent.

“I’m thrilled that this week, the House of Representatives passed my bill, the Eliminating Improper Payments to the Dead,” he stated. “It has already cleared the Senate. Now that it’s gone through the House, it’s heading to the President for signature.”