Congresswoman Moore Introduces the Social Security Enhancement and Protection Act

Statement

Today, Congresswoman Moore introduced H.R. 5392 the Social Security Enhancement and Protection Act, which would extend the solvency of Social Security and make key reforms to improve the program benefits so that Social Security works better for vulnerable Americans. Congresswoman Moore released the following statement:

"I lived in poverty and I am so grateful for the government assistance programs that provided me with the opportunity to improve my financial situation and make a better life for me and my family. I came to Congress and fought hard to join the esteemed Ways and Means Committee so that I could advance policies that promote basic economic fairness. That's why I am excited to sponsor legislation that would preserve and enhance the Social Security program. Social Security is the North Star of public policy.

"Social Security benefits act as the foundation of workers retirement security, and too often as the sole source of income for retirees. But Social Security is not just a retirement program; it is the most successful antipoverty program in our nation`s history. Without Social Security, around 22 million more Americans would live below the poverty line.

"Yet, the system's integrity is at risk. Social Security is fully funded until 2035 but faces a financing shortfall after that. Any solution that involve cuts to benefits is unacceptable to me. Additionally, any reform of this critical program should include benefit improvements that help women, people of color, and low-income people. I'm looking out for the elderly and women (because they generally live longer than men) who are more likely to outlive their benefits. I am speaking up for people of color who have suffered as a result of institutional inequities. I am advocating for children of retired, disabled or deceased workers who are full-time students enrolled in college or vocational schools. Reinstating the student benefit recognizes that children who are full-time students after age 18 are often still in fact dependent on their parents for their support and that children of Social Security beneficiaries may be unable to pursue an education without this benefit. I am supporting caregivers because this uncompensated labor is not free."

Endorsing organizations: National Women's Law Center, Social Security Works, National Committee to Preserve Social Security & Medicare, Strengthen Social Security Coalition.

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