Congressional Response: Representative Robert Simmons (R-2nd, Connecticut) Responds To Your Lockbox Petition

Send this article to a friend.

Printer friendly version.

Congressional Response: Representative Robert Simmons (R-2nd, Connecticut) Responds To Your Lockbox Petition

Thank you for contacting me about government spending the Social Security trust fund. I appreciate your taking the time to share your views with me.

I believe that it is absolutely essential that we continue to guarantee the basic benefits that Social Security and Medicare provide to all, including women, individuals with disabilities, and children. Rest assured, I will vigorously oppose any plan that could jeopardize these important benefits.

Prior to 9/11, there was little argument in Congress about preserving the Social Security trust fund. Many members of Congress, including me, believed we should not tap into this fund to pay for ongoing government programs. However, in light of the attacks and our nation's commitment to homeland defense and fighting a war, there is unanimous agreement that we must marshal all of our resources for this vital effort.

The Social Security trust fund currently has a surplus, so using money from this program will not affect benefits paid out to seniors. Nor will it affect benefits in future years because these surpluses are transformed into government bonds, which will be repaid when they are needed for future social security payments. Other expenses will be paid out of general revenues. This is a prudent way to proceed I believe.

Thanks again for contacting me. Your opinions help me to serve you and the people of Connecticut better. Should you have any further questions or concerns about this or any other issue, please do not hesitate to contact me or my staff. Also, feel free to visit my website at www.house.gov/simmons.

May God bless you, your family and these United States of America.

All the best,
Rob Simmons
Member of Congress
Second District, Connecticut

October 2002