Legislative Update for Week of May 10, 2004

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Legislative Update for Week of May 10, 2004

The TSCL legislative team of David and Betty Funderburk and Patty Gaul have spent much of the week on Capitol Hill lobbying on our legislative agenda for a fair and accurate COLA, Notch reform, and prescription drug reimportation.

The number of Notch cosponsors has reached 101, about which we're extremely excited. So, we are making an extra effort this week and beyond to continue what we see as very positive momentum in that area.

We feel our meetings have been productive, with several Members of Congress saying they will sign on to Congressman Ralph Hallss bill, H.R.97.

During these meetings, we often describe how the Haldi Report, which TSCL commissioned, shows how the 1977 Social Security Act Amendments caused the inequity for Notch babies for a variety of reasons.

The Congressionally mandated transitional formula failed to provide the cushion that was intended. Economic conditions that were present as Notch babies began to retire lowered the real dollar value of Social Security checks for Notch babies. Individuals who delayed retirement were especially hard hit.

The additional $100 a month or so that Notch reform would provide (if the individual accepted the lump-sum payment payable for four years) could mean a world of difference to one who is trying to eke by with a few hundred dollars a month. Notch reform could mean a senior would be able to afford his or her prescriptions, or could afford adequate heating.

We will continue our lobbying efforts and ask that you continue your efforts as well, making those calls and sending those e-mails and letters to your elected officials. We ardently believe that, as a matter of fairness, Notch reform needs to be attained.

May 2004