Congresswoman Nancy Mace announced on Mar. 26 the introduction of the Preserving Social Security and Medicare for Citizens Act of 2026, which aims to restrict Social Security and Medicare benefits to American citizens, nationals, and lawful permanent residents. The proposed legislation would also require certain foreign nationals with nonimmigrant work visas to pay payroll taxes.
The bill seeks to address concerns about the long-term stability of these programs by narrowing eligibility and expanding the tax base. “Americans have paid into Social Security and Medicare their entire working lives,” said Congresswoman Mace. “These benefits are for Americans who play by the rules, not for foreign nationals or those here illegally. This bill draws a clear line, strengthens these programs, and protects what hardworking Americans have earned.”
If enacted, the legislation would amend existing law so that only U.S. citizens, nationals, or lawful permanent residents can receive Social Security or Medicare benefits. It would also remove exemptions in federal tax law that currently allow some nonimmigrant visa workers to avoid paying Federal Insurance Contributions Act (FICA) taxes.
Mace said her proposal is intended to ensure fairness in benefit distribution: “Washington has ignored the strain on these programs for too long,” she said. “This is about fairness, accountability, and making sure Social Security and Medicare are there for the Americans who earned them today and for generations to come.”
Nancy Mace has represented South Carolina’s 1st district in Congress since replacing Joe Cunningham in 2021 according to official records. She previously served in the South Carolina House of Representatives from 2018 through 2020 as reported by state legislative records. Born in Fort Bragg in 1977, Mace now lives in Charleston at age 45 according to Vote Smart, after graduating from The Citadel with a Bachelor of Science degree in 1999 as noted by The Citadel.
Observers say this legislative move could impact how future eligibility requirements are shaped as debates over entitlement program solvency continue.
