WASHINGTON - Congresswoman Rosa L. DeLauro (Conn.-3) issued the following statement in response to remarks made by President Bush about the Social Security system today. Last week, the Administration indicated it plans to reduce initial benefits for near-retirees. A cut of more than one third from promised benefits would result in $426 less per month for an average Connecticut beneficiary. This is a total benefit of only $6000 per year, which is $2300 less than the poverty level.

“The president’s remarks about the state of the Social Security system today for those at or near retirement are at odds with previous reports that the Administration plans to reduce initial benefits for near-retirees and further prove there is no immediate crisis with this program. The Administration has yet to figure out a way to make its plan to dismantle the Social Security system palatable to the American people while Democrats are ready to consider proposals to enhance individual savings and preserve Social Security.”