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Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer introduced the Keep Billionaires out of Social Security Act during a visit to Glens Falls on Thursday (August 14). The legislation aims to counter recent cuts and changes to the Social Security Administration (SSA) under the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), which have led to staffing reductions and potential office closures.
Schumer's bill focuses on preventing Social Security field office closures, hiring new staff, and protecting beneficiaries' data. It also seeks to modernize the system to reduce wait times and improve access for nearly 320,000 seniors in the Capital Region who rely on Social Security benefits. Schumer emphasized the importance of investing in Social Security to ensure seniors receive the benefits they have earned.
According to Schumer's press release, the DOGE cuts have resulted in the firing of thousands of Social Security workers, leading to overwhelmed phone lines, website crashes, and long wait times for beneficiaries. Schumer criticized these cuts, stating, "If no one can take your call, if the website keeps crashing, if they fire the staff that processes your claims, if they make it impossible for you to get the help you need, that's a cut to your Social Security benefits."
The bill is part of a broader effort by Senate Democrats to reverse the cuts made under President Trump's administration. Schumer noted that Social Security is one of the most successful government programs, preventing nearly 40% of people over age 65 from living in poverty.
While the bill is unlikely to advance with a Republican majority in Congress, Schumer remains committed to protecting Social Security for future generations. The legislation will be introduced in September, aiming to enhance and modernize the Social Security system for seniors across the nation.