Coronavirus, Economic Relief, Social Security, and Medicare. Democratic Perspective welcomes Dan Adcock, Government Relations and Policy Director for the National Committee to Preserve Social Security and Medicare to discuss potential changes to Social Security and current political proposals.
Regarding the economic relief packages under consideration, Adcock says he’s worried that the stimulus will never get down to the people. It’s too focused on help for corporations with no strings attached. Under McConnell’s proposal, people who make the least money get the least benefit – between $600-$1,200. As a starter, this is particularly ill-thought-out. Seniors would have obstacles.”
“In the past, corporations get big money and use it for stock buybacks,” he continues. “We’re hoping the priorities of Senate Democrats will prevail with protections that allow no buybacks. Stimulus should be in the form of loans and have oversight.” He goes on to discuss proposed cuts to Social Security and SSI.
As for the future of Social Security and Medicare, Adcock mentions that there are some positive plans, such as Rep. John Larson’s Social Security 2100 Act. It would not only expand benefits. It would strengthen the program’s future. It would also increase spending on healthcare. Larson is trying to have it inserted into the stimulus.
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