When Social Security was originated back during the Great Depression of the ’30s, its purpose was to provide survivor income to those who had little or none. Through the years, the program has been expanded, so that now even the very wealthy get a monthly check.
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With the country spending hundreds of billions we don’t have, trying to stave off a major recession, and millions of Social Security recipients not being able to stay up with the cost of living, it’s my opinion that giving a monthly check to the wealthy is showing the same lack of conscience that our Congress shows with the outlandish perks they give themselves.
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I would propose that an income limit would be established that would identify who really needs Social Security, and, to qualify, you would have to apply with your proof of need.
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When I discuss this proposal with people, the common argument is they have paid into the system for many years and should get their money back. My response is that we have paid all kinds of taxes that have gone down the drain, and the system has run out of money because of give-away programs to people who don’t deserve or need it.
This article appears in Sep 24 – Oct 1, 2009.