Larson Praises President Obama's Commitment to Expanding Social Security

Statement

Yesterday, President Barack Obama addressed the need to strengthen Social Security and enhance benefits. Rep. John B. Larson (CT-01) released the following statement:

"No other program in America helps retirees, survivors, and the disabled the way Social Security does. After 2008, many Americans lost their life savings. Millions rely on Social Security for most of their income, but we have not adjusted the program in decades. The average benefit is just $1,300 a month--and even less for women. As the cost of living keeps rising, we need to make sure no one who worked hard their whole life can retire into poverty. I am proud to see President Obama recognizes the need to expand benefits and strengthen the program.

"Last year, I introduced a plan that would increase benefits across the board, prevent seniors from retiring into poverty, and ensure Social Security remains strong for generations. Americans have worked hard and earned their benefits. As the President said, they deserve a dignified retirement, and I will keep fighting to ensure they get one."

Larson introduced the Social Security 2100 Act to provide a 2% increase in benefits, fix the cost of living adjustment to accurately reflect the expenses seniors face, provide a tax cut to seniors, and raise the minimum benefit to 25% above the poverty line. Recently his plan won the endorsement of the Congressional Progressive Caucus.

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