In Ohio, many are becoming worried about the state of Social Security. The fund was designed to support individuals who require the income, but are incapable of working, whether they are elderly, disabled or needy. Social Security disability focuses directly on those individuals who have received a disabling injury and are no longer able to work. This is one of the major facets of the Social Security program, and with the lack of budget money, many Americans are beginning to believe that the fund will not last forever.
Many people have varying opinions on the state of Social Security and how it should be addressed. In a recent article, several people, including two citizens, a U.S. Senator and the president of the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees offered their thoughts on the topic.
Although some may not be fully incapacitated by their disability, they are still entitled to their benefits if they have been approved through the process. However, one U.S. Senator would like to change that in an effort to keep the program afloat. He urged lawmakers to consider significant reform that would make the process more selective, so taxpayers would be relieved to some extent.
The president of the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees also called upon the government to make necessary changes. According to him, the Social Security disability fund went “cash negative” last year. While many are frightened by this, he pointed out that the program has been cash negative before and was able to survive.
Finally, another U.S. citizen provided another viewpoint. In her letter, she called on Congress to remain true to its promise to the American people who are disabled or nearing retirement. She argued that the system is a public insurance program that should provide for those whose savings could be depleted too soon.
As can be noted, many individuals of varying backgrounds have qualms with the system. With an estimated date of 2018 set for the exhaustion of the trust that feeds the disability fund, Americans are hoping that their elected officials have this hard conversation sooner rather than later.
Source: The Washington Post, “The dwindling state of Social Security,” Nov. 3, 2011