TSCL Chairman Larry Hyland Congratulates Representative Mike McIntyre (NC-7)
Congressman Mike McIntyre Receives TSCL 2012 Seniors Advocate Award One of North Carolina’s staunchest advocates for seniors was recently recognized for his efforts on behalf of the nation’s senior citizens. Representative Mike McIntyre (D-NC-7) received the 2012 Seniors Advocate Award from The Senior Citizens League (TSCL) one of the nation’s largest non-partisan seniors groups. McIntyre was chosen for his dedication to three major issues that matter most to the TSCL grass roots members. He introduced of “The Notch Fairness Act (H.R. 1001).” The legislation would provide seniors born 1917 through 1926, affected by the Social Security Notch, a modest settlement or improved monthly benefit.
Seniors affected by the Notch tend to receive lower benefits than other beneficiaries having nearly identical work and earnings histories. According to government data, today more than 12% of seniors who are Notch Babies’ age live at or below the poverty level. Congressman McIntyre also cosponsored legislation that would provide a more fair and adequate Social Security cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) by using the Consumer Price Index for Elderly Consumers (CPI-E), an index that better reflects how seniors must spend their money, especially for healthcare.
Had the government used the CPI-E to index COLAs since it’s first inception, a senior who retired in 1984 with average benefits would receive about $72 a month more today. McIntyre also co-sponsored a bill that provides stronger protection for Social Security by closing a loophole that allows noncitizens to become entitled to Social Security benefits that include earnings for jobs worked while illegal immigrants.
“Congressman McIntyre’s dedication and commitment to defending the earned benefits of seniors is greatly appreciated and has not gone unnoticed,” said TSCL Chairman Larry Hyland in presenting the award. “By taking a stand he brings seniors one step closer to the retirement security they deserve, ” he stated. TSCL is meeting with Members of Congress on these issues as we approach elections and appreciates the response that we’ve received from those of you who have signed our nationwide petitions.
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