DeLauro Celebrates Social Security’s Birthday

President Franklin Roosevelt Signed the Social Security Act 80 Years Ago Today

NEW HAVEN, CT—Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro (D-CT) released the following statement today celebrating the 80th birthday of the Social Security Act.

“Social Security is the ultimate legislative expression of our nation’s shared values and has tied generations together for 80 years. Along with Medicare, Medicaid and now the Affordable Care Act, it is the bedrock of our American social insurance system, and part of our moral duty to keep retired Americans from falling into poverty.

“For tens of millions of American families, Social Security is absolutely critical to maintaining a basic level of financial security. Over 22 million more Americans would be in poverty without it. Before 1935, old age meant economic insecurity for practically all seniors. That is no longer the case and we are a better nation for it.

“But, benefits are modest and most older adult beneficiaries rely on Social Security for the majority of their income. As wages stagnate and pensions disappear, many are left without a reliable source of retirement income. That is why Social Security ought to be expanded, not cut. I will fight to strengthen Social Security, not allow it to be decimated.

“On Social Security’s birthday, I pledge to keep its fundamental promise alive: if you work in America, America will guarantee you a foundation for retirement. Happy birthday, Social Security, and thank you for the dignified retirement you have given millions of Americans.”

DeLauro is the senior Democrat on the subcommittee responsible for funding the Social Security Administration. She is a longtime supporter of ensuring seniors are not pushed back in to poverty, as was so often the case before the passage of Social Security.

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