June 20, 2012 (Washington, DC) – One of North Carolina’s staunchest seniors’ advocates 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 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 its 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.
Finally, TSCL recognized Congressman McIntyre for his introduction of “Social Security 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’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.
For more information about Social Security and Medicare benefits, keeping costs low while living in retirement, get a free copy of The Social Security & Medicare Advisor. Send a self addressed stamped envelope and $1 for shipping and handling to: The Senior Citizens League, 1001 N. Fairfax St., Suite 101, Alexandria, VA 22314. You may also sign up to receive the free e-newsletter version, click here.
With 1.2 million supporters, The Senior Citizens League is one of the nation’s largest nonpartisan seniors groups. Its mission is to promote and assist members and supporters, to educate and alert senior citizens about their rights and freedoms as U.S. Citizens, and to protect and defend the benefits senior citizens have earned and paid for. The Senior Citizens League is a proud affiliate of The Retired Enlisted Association. Visit "About Us" for more information.
PRESS CONTACT:
Shannon Benton, Executive Director, 1-800-333-TSCL (8725) sbenton@tsclhq.org
