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

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

I agree that the Notch years are unfairly penalizing seniors born between 1917 and 1926. There is simply no reason that these seniors should receive lower Social Security payments than their neighbors who just happen to be born in the years just before or after the Notch period. That's why I am a cosponsor of three bills to correct this inequity - H.R. 97, H.R. 80 and H.R. 82.

H.R. 97 would give Notch victims a $5,000 dollar lump-sum settlement. H.R. 80 seeks to correct the Notch inequity in a different way. Titled, the "Notch Baby Act of 2001," the measure would phase in an improved benefit formula over five years for beneficiaries born between the years of 1917-1926. Finally, H.R. 82, the "Notch Baby Health Care Relief Act," would offset the reduction in Social Security benefits of beneficiaries who were born between 1917-1926 by providing a tax credit for Medicare Part B premiums, in essence adjust Medical insurance payments for Notch Babies. As health care expenses can take up a large proportion of a senior's retirement income, this tax credit can go a long way to both correct the inequity caused by the Notch and to help seniors meet their health care needs.

Because there are groups in and outside of Congress who believe there is no Notch problem, progress has been slow going on these three measures. H.R. 80, H.R. 82, and H.R. 97 have all been referred to the House Ways and Means Committee, where they are awaiting further action. Rest assured, I will keep your thoughts in mind should I have an opportunity to vote on any Notch legislation.

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 my staff or me. 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