People CARE Act

The People CARE Act would create a special commission within Congress to examine federal means-tested assistance programs—those designed to help low-income individuals such as Medicaid, SNAP (food assistance), and TANF (temporary cash assistance). The commission would be tasked with identifying potential changes to these programs, including consolidating related programs, shifting certain responsibilities to states, and adjusting how benefits decrease as recipients' income increases. The commission would also explore ways to help caseworkers connect individuals and families with all programs they may qualify for.

The commission would consist of eight members, with equal representation from both major parties. It would establish a public website where citizens could submit reform ideas for consideration. After completing its review, the commission would report its findings and proposed legislation to Congress, which would then consider the recommendations under expedited procedures. If enacted, this bill would not immediately change any assistance programs but would launch a formal review process to evaluate potential reforms.