Issue Position: Social Security - Notch Issue

Issue Position

The "notch issue" is one I hear about frequently from seniors in my district. Amendments enacted in 1977 to the Social Security Act substantially altered the way benefits were computed, beginning with people who became eligible for Social Security in 1979. For retirees, this affected people born after 1916. While this action was taken by Congress long before I was elected, I know the "notch" issue has been a long-standing and contentious problem. Individuals born between 1917 and 1926 -- the "notch" years -- are concerned that the changes in the rules caused their benefits to be lower than those of retirees who were born before them. Very high inflation then caused a hike in benefits for retirees born after them.

"Notch Babies" as they are often called, frequently receive literature in the mail from groups that purport to lobby members of Congress on their behalf and request donations for this service. While there are some legitimate advocacy organizations that use contributions judiciously, I strongly urge my constituents to research any organization that asks them to send money to lobby on this issue. I suggest that anyone who is approached by these organizations ask if most of their donations go toward lobbying efforts or toward their own administrative costs, salaries, and other expenses. My constituents can advise me of their opinions simply by calling my office, writing, or emailing me.

Source