Social Security & Retirement Security

I believe that it is Congress’ duty to find a way to make Social Security both more solvent and sustainable, so the program can maintain its commitment to America’s seniors.  Social Security will begin spending more than it takes in by 2017 and will be bankrupt by 2041, just as workers in their mid-20s begin to retire.  Ignoring this problem only makes the solution more painful for future generations of taxpayers and retirees.  We must explore ways to avoid massive tax increases and benefit cuts, provide permanent solvency for Social Security, stop raiding the trust fund for spending on other government programs, maintain the program’s important safety net, and improve the current return on Social Security investments.  Ultimately, any reform plan will require bipartisan support and the support of the American people.

I am also proud to say that I have signed on as a cosponsor of The Social Security Fairness Act during the 108, 109, 110, and most recently H.R. 235 in the 111th Congress.  This legislation amends title II (Old Age, Survivors and Disability Insurance) (OASDI) of the Social Security Act to repeal government pension offset requirements applicable to husband's and wife's insurance benefits, widow's and widower's insurance benefits, and mother's and father's insurance benefits with respect to OASDI payments.  It also would repeal the windfall elimination requirements with respect to computation of an individual's primary insurance amount.  These provisions significantly decrease the retirement pay of millions of hard-working public servants.

Today’s high cost of living, medical care, and prescription drugs place a burden on many retirees throughout the nation.  I understand that many widows and widowers depend upon their spouse’s insurance benefits. Our nation’s dedicated teachers, firefighters, and peace officers deserve reform in order to secure their retirement.