As Congress advances a bill which could fast-track benefit cuts, community leaders discuss the need to protect Social Security for future generations
Tuesday, February 6, 2024
MADISON, Wis. – At recent roundtable discussions in La Crosse and Kenosha sponsored by Opportunity Wisconsin, Citizen Action Wisconsin, and For Our Future Wisconsin, seniors and community leaders demanded Congress oppose attempts to weaken Social Security.
As Congress advances a bill to create a so-called “fiscal commission,” which would create a fast-track process for cuts to programs including Social Security, Wisconsinites discussed the importance of the program and the difference it’s made for families across the state. Congressional Republicans have even suggested that they will attempt to include the commission in upcoming government funding packages. Roundtable participants also highlighted recent proposals in Congress which would have cut funding from the Social Security Administration, leading to longer wait times for benefits.
Penny, La Crosse: “As a small business owner, and someone who worked my whole life raising two children as a single mom, I haven’t had the chance to put a lot away for retirement. But I’ve paid into Social Security, I’ve earned these benefits, and I’m fortunate to have them today. I’m very concerned about the future of this program and we need to make sure Congress doesn’t jeopardize these benefits.”
Jim, Kenosha: “We can’t afford cuts to Social Security, we need to keep it accessible for seniors like me who have earned it through their entire career. I started collecting Social Security a month after my 66th birthday. It has helped me afford retirement and live comfortably. We need to make sure future generations have the same opportunity, which means Congressman Steil needs to oppose any attempt to weaken Social Security benefits.”
Meghan Roh, Opportunity Wisconsin Program Director: “Wisconsinites can see through this latest proposal for what it is: An attempt to make it easier for lawmakers to cut Social Security benefits without transparency, scrutiny, or accountability. If Congressmen Bryan Steil and Derrick Van Orden want to support seniors and working families in their districts, they’ll speak out and vote against a fiscal commission that allows cuts to programs like Social Security and Medicare.”
Last month the House Budget Committee advanced H.R. 5779, the Fiscal Commission Act of 2023. AARP and more than 100 organizations have also publicly opposed creating a fiscal commission, citing the potential for cuts to Social Security benefits. During debate over the bill, Republicans even rejected amendments to remove Social Security and Medicare from cuts.
Kenosha area community members and leaders participate in a Social Security roundtable on Friday, February 2nd.
La Crosse area community members and leaders participate in a Social Security roundtable on Thursday, February 1st.
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