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Pelosi Statement on Social Security & Medicare Trustees’ Reports

July 22, 2015

Contact: Drew Hammill, 202-226-7616

Washington, D.C. – Democratic Leader Nancy Pelosi released the following statement after the Social Security and Medicare Trustees released their annual reports:

"Social Security Disability Insurance represents an essential lifeline for millions of Americans; Americans who worked hard, who paid into Social Security, and now have a serious disability that prevents them from working. SSDI is a bedrock promise to every American – that even in the event of a life-changing illness or injury, this basic measure of support and security will be there for them and their family.

"We must keep this promise and strengthen Social Security overall. With the Disability fund projected to deplete all reserves before the end of 2016, Congress should act swiftly to improve SSDI and reallocate the needed financing into the fund before the end of this year. Congress must not allow the Trust Fund to be exhausted.

"Thanks to the efficiencies of the Affordable Care Act, we have extended the life of the Medicare Trust Fund until 2030 – 13 years longer than was projected in 2009. Together with the reforms of our bipartisan, permanent fix to the Sustainable Growth Rate, we have ensured that seniors will have access to the doctors and health care they need for years to come. As we mark the 50th anniversary of Medicare and the 80th anniversary of Social Security, let us rededicate ourselves to strengthening, not cutting the security they guarantee each generation of Americans."

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Issues:Health Care