1. United States
2. Maine
3. Letter

The Social Security Administration's decision to end the longstanding "Enumeration at Birth" program and require new parents to visit an office in person is extremely concerning. This abrupt change places an unnecessary burden on families at one of the most vulnerable times in their lives. Brand new mothers and infants should not be forced to sit for hours in crowded waiting rooms, risking exposure to illnesses, just to obtain a crucial document like a Social Security number. In addition to safety concerns, single mothers, mothers recovering from surgery, or mothers with disabilities will be affected by this in ways which will increase postpartum depression and mental health issues which risks the lives of children. This policy creates transportation challenges, especially for lower-income families, and compels sleep-deprived parents to leave the safety and comfort of their homes. The previous process was efficient, secure, and worked well for decades. Restoring it would alleviate significant stress for Maine families already overwhelmed with caring for a newborn. There appears to be no legitimate rationale behind this detrimental policy shift other than adding pointless administrative hurdles. I urge you to advocate for immediately reinstating the Enumeration at Birth program in our state. New parents deserve a straightforward process that prioritizes their wellbeing over bureaucratic obstacles.