By Representative Robert Aderholt (R-AL) Every American worker has an unspoken agreement with the government. A commitment to pay taxes in order to receive an intended benefit from Washington. However for some, this important source of stability has turned into a test of determination - for they are involved in a struggle to receive the simple basics of what Social Security is intended to offer.
If you were born between 1917 and 1926 or care about someone who was, you are likely all too familiar with the situation. People born in those years are considered `Notch Babies.` The Social Security `Notch` was created 24 years ago -- back in 1977 - to correct a formula error that was causing Social Security benefits to increase at a rate higher than the inflation rate.
I support legislation to change this inequity in the law. I support the Notch Fairness Act of 2001 (H.R. 97). This legislation is intended to allow those who turned 65 between 1981 and 1992 to choose either lump sum reimbursement payments over four years, or, an improved benefit computation formula.
These `Notch Babies` should be praised, not punished. The 1977 recalculation was an effort to maintain the stability of the entire Social Security program. This group of 9 million seniors made sacrifices to save Social Security when it almost collapsed in the 1970s. They should now be rewarded - especially considering they are just asking to be treated like others who have made the same contributions to the system. This generation fought and sacrificed during World War II. Now, although they receive lower benefits, they are among the senior age group hit hardest by escalating health care insurance premiums and prescription drug costs.
I believe there is more at stake than the benefits of 9 million `Notch Baby` seniors. The action we take on this matter will send strong signals to the entire nation. We must convince every American that the Social Security program will keep its promise to its recipients - especially those who may be disproportionately affected by benefit cuts. Keeping our promise to `Notch Babies` is a necessary step to gaining and maintaining the support of the nation`s future retirees.
The legislation will ensure that our senior citizens are treated fairly and they receive the benefits they are due. Pursuing this legislation is the right thing to do. Not just for the millions of `Notch Babies` but for the millions more watching.
Congressman Robert Aderholt is serving his third term representing North Central Alabama in the U.S. House of Representatives. He can be contacted at:
1433 Longworth Building
Washington, D.C. 20515
(202) 225-4876.
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