Rep. Esty joins Rep. Larson in Introducing Social Security Proposal to Cut Taxes for Seniors, Increase Benefits, and Strengthen Program

Press Release

Today, Congresswoman Elizabeth Esty (CT-5) joined Congressman John B. Larson (CT-1), a member of the U.S. House Ways & Means Subcommittee on Social Security, in introducing the Social Security 2100 Act, H.R. 1391. The bill would cut taxes for Social Security recipients, increase benefits for current and future beneficiaries, and keep the system strong for generations to come.

"I've heard from seniors throughout central and northwest Connecticut who rely on Social Security to make ends meet. Congress has a responsibility to protect and strengthen this lifeline program that seniors have earned through hard work. I'm proud to join my friend and colleague Congressman Larson in introducing the Social Security 2100 Act, which will rightfully increase benefits for current seniors and keep Social Security strong for our children and grandchildren," said Congresswoman Esty.

"Social Security remains the nation's bedrock retirement program and provides vital protection for the disabled and those who have lost a loved one. Many Americans, however, do not believe it will be there for them when they retire. I am proud to announce a common sense path forward today that, not only strengthens benefits now, but ensures Social Security will be here through the next century," said Congressman Larson.

The Social Security 2100 Act, H.R. 1391, provides the following:

A tax cut for over 11 million Social Security recipients by raising the threshold on taxation of benefits

A benefit increase beginning in 2016 for current and new beneficiaries

Protection for low income workers by raising the minimum benefit from below the poverty line to 25% above the poverty line

Long term protection against inflation for cost of living adjustments (COLA) by adopting the CPI-E (Consumer Price Index-Elderly) formula

Social Security remains the single most reliable program for middle-class Americans and is expected to pay full benefits over the next two decades. With commonsense steps like those in the Social Security 2100 Act, Congress can boost this vital program now and ensure Social Security remains strong well into the future.

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