Religious Exemptions for Social Security and Healthcare Taxes Act

# Religious Exemptions for Social Security and Healthcare Taxes Act Summary **What the Bill Would Do** HR 4389 would allow certain individuals with sincere religious beliefs to obtain exemptions from paying Social Security and Medicare (healthcare) taxes. Currently, federal law permits some religious groups—primarily Amish and Mennonite communities—to opt out of these programs if they meet specific criteria. This bill would likely expand or modify those existing exemption rules, though the specific details are not yet publicly available since it remains in committee. **Who It Affects** The bill would primarily affect members of religious groups whose beliefs conflict with participating in government social insurance programs.

It could also impact the Social Security and Medicare systems themselves, since fewer contributions from exempted individuals means less funding for these programs, though the overall effect would likely be minimal given the small number of people currently using such exemptions. **Current Status** As of now, HR 4389 is in committee and has not advanced to a full House vote. The bill was introduced by Representative Troy Balderson (R-OH) but has not yet been formally debated or amended by Congress. No timeline for further action has been announced.