1. United States
2. Pa.
3. Letter

The plans to slash the Social Security Administration's workforce by up to 50% and shutter hundreds of local offices are deeply concerning. These actions put the benefits of over 72 million Americans at risk, including older adults, people with disabilities, and their families who rely on these vital payments for their livelihoods. Requiring in-person visits to make direct deposit changes and limiting access to phone services will create significant barriers, particularly for those with mobility issues, living in rural areas, or lacking technological access. The SSA has a longstanding record of reliably administering benefits without any missed payments for 80 years. However, former commissioner Martin O'Malley warns that these workforce cuts could lead to a "total system collapse" and disruption of benefits within just 30-90 days. This is unacceptable. I urge you to take immediate action to protect the SSA from these damaging cuts and office closures. Refusal to fund the SSA at full working capacity in any budget or spending bill would jeopardize a crucial safety net system that millions of vulnerable Americans depend on for survival. Congress must act swiftly to safeguard the SSA and preserve access to Social Security benefits for all eligible recipients.