8. The SSI program of title XVI of the Social Security Act, 42 U.S.C. § 1381 et seq., provides a “guaranteed minimum income level” for financially needy individuals who are aged, blind, or disabled. Sullivan v. Zebley, 493 U.S. 521, 524 (1990); see also 20 C.F.R. § 416.

2 The SSI program is a federal assistance program, administered by the Social Security Administration, for low-income individuals who are aged, blind, or disabled. See 42 U.S.C. §§ 1381 et seq.; Sullivan v. Zebley, 493 U.S. 521, 524 (1990). Case 1:16-cv-00212-KBJ Document 14-1 Filed 12/06/16 Page 10 of 29 -6- In the ACA, however, Congress fundamentally transformed the DSH program, effective October 1, 2013 (the beginning of fiscal year 2014).

The supplemental security income (“SSI”) program referred to in the DSH statute, quoted above, is a federal assistance program for low-income individuals who are aged, disabled or blind. 42 U.S.C. § 1381 et seq. The SSI program is administered by the Social Security Administration (“SSA”).

B. Supplemental Security Income The Supplemental Security Income (SSI) program is administered by the Social Security Administration under Title XVI of the Social Security Act. 42 U.S.C. §§ 1381- 1383(f). It serves as an income source of last resort for elderly or disabled individuals.