Don’t Be Fooled...
This being the last opportunity before the November election that I can write to you, I thought it might be valuable to give you something to ponder. Retirees should not be deceived by a recent budget proposal that proponents falsely claim will be to our benefit. After years of fighting against the efforts of politicians who want to undermine Social Security, we’ve learned not to be fooled by coded language such as, “cutting waste” or “getting the Government out of your life.” We know such political speak is merely a ruse with the goal of privatizing or eliminating Social Security and Medicare!
All that glitters isn’t gold, and as more people enter retirement age, the Republican budget proposes to reduce funding for administrating area Social Security offices. When Social Security offices close, retirees will have more trouble accessing Social Security and other vital services. As a result, we will not be served as well and will start to believe their baloney that seniors
could be better served by the private sector. However, that simply is not true because Social Security administrative costs are one percent or less of budget costs. Try to name another company that offers what Social Security does at that minimal overhead.
To implement these budget cuts, five Social Security administrative offices in Pennsylvania would be closed along with 15 more offices in other states. Where will these retirees go when they need information on their Benefits, especially in Pennsylvania? Presumably, Republicans hope that retirees will rely on the internet for benefits information. But due to lack of knowledge and monthly income, it is hard for most seniors to navigate online, or to afford internet service.
SOAR members need to know the facts on this issue! This can only happen if we choose to remain silent or not get involved. We cannot sit back as an organization, and we will not allow our retirement security to be threatened without a fight.
Please keep up on the issues and inform our members; after that, the decision is theirs, but at the least, we can feel good about what we have done. Remember to vote on Election Day and get involved.
Bill Pienta, SOAR President
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