Letter to Senate on Baucus Amendment to Protect Social Security

January 21, 2010

United States Senate
Washington , DC 20510

Dear Senator:

In my January 15 letter on behalf of the National Committee to Preserve Social Security and Medicare's millions of members and supporters, I advised you of our opposition to the Conrad-Gregg amendment to the debt ceiling legislation, H.J. Res 45. This is because we oppose the establishment of a fiscal commission that would lead to large cuts in Social Security benefits.

Today, I am writing to ask you to support Senator Baucus' amendment that would help protect Social Security if such a commission were approved by Congress. The Baucus amendment would prevent any changes proposed by the commission from being considered under a fast-track process. Without this protection, the Conrad-Gregg measure would preclude Congress from exercising its legislative responsibilities over Social Security, a program of importance to all Americans.

Once again, I would like to reiterate our view that Social Security should be strengthened and made solvent on its own merits and by Members of Congress who recognize the importance of the program and the many protections it provides. Social Security should not be considered by a fiscal commission aimed at reducing the federal debt, particularly a commission whose recommendations could not be amended by Congress.

Again, I urge you to vote for Senator Baucus' amendment to help protect Social Security and to oppose the Conrad/Gregg amendment that would lead to cuts in Social Security benefits.

Cordially,

Barbara B. Kennelly
President & CEO