Commission on Sustaining Medicare and Social Security Act of 2026

This bill establishes the Commission on Sustaining Medicare and Social Security as an entity within the legislative branch. Its core mission is to conduct a comprehensive study of the Old-Age, Survivors, and Disability Insurance program (Social Security) and the Medicare program. The Commission is mandated to submit a detailed report to Congress within one year of its initial meeting, outlining its findings and recommendations. The report must specifically address several critical areas. It will examine the impact of using alternative indexes , such as the Consumer Price Index for the Elderly (CPI-E), on beneficiaries and the Trust Funds. Additionally, it will analyze the effects of alternative Medicare premium formulas , particularly those considering financial hardships and socioeconomic status. The Commission is also tasked with proposing program reforms designed to increase the overall sustainability of both Social Security and Medicare, and to prevent fraud, enhance integrity, and reduce improper payments within these vital programs. The Commission will comprise 11 members, including representatives appointed by the President, the Speaker of the House, and the Senate and House minority and majority leaders. These appointments will include the Commissioner of Social Security, the Administrator of the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, and several nongovernmental experts in Social Security and Medicare. Members will serve without compensation but will receive travel expenses, and the Commission is authorized to hire a Director and staff, hold hearings, and obtain data from federal agencies to fulfill its duties. The Commission is authorized $2,000,000 and will terminate 60 days after submitting its report to Congress.