AARP: Deal Includes Important Protections for Retirement Security

 

 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

January 2, 2013

 

CONTACT:

Tiffany Lundquist

202-434-2560 or media@aarp.org

 

AARP: Deal Includes Important Protections for Retirement Security

Responsible solutions needed for long-term challenges facing Social Security, Medicare

Washington, DC – AARP Executive Vice President Nancy LeaMond today released a statement reacting to the “fiscal cliff” deal reached by Congressional leaders and the President. The statement is below:

“The ‘fiscal cliff’ bill includes important provisions that protect health and retirement security for older Americans and their families. AARP is pleased the agreement ensures that Medicare patients can continue to see their doctors by delaying an automatic and drastic pay cut for Medicare doctors for another year.

“With more and more middle class families anxious about their retirement security, we are also pleased to see the extension of benefits for the long-term unemployed and the restoration of Social Security’s dedicated funding stream.

“The deal also protects funding for key Medicaid programs, which will help millions of Americans who rely on Medicaid for their health and long-term care. And while we are disappointed in the repeal of the CLASS Program, we are hopeful that the new Commission on Long Term Care will work towards meaningful solutions to help individuals live in their homes and communities and support family caregivers.

“As the budget discussions continue into the new year, AARP remains concerned about harmful proposals to cut Social Security and Medicare benefits to balance the budget. Instead of cutting benefits, Washington should be looking for responsible solutions that address the long-term challenges facing Social Security and Medicare – like reducing health care costs throughout the system, not just shifting costs onto seniors.

“And while a one-year patch is helpful, we also need a long-term, fiscally responsible solution to the payment formula for Medicare doctors that will ensure that today’s seniors and future retirees can get the care they need.

“On behalf of our 37 million members and all Americans who have earned their Social Security and Medicare benefits, AARP will continue working to foster an open, thoughtful public conversation about how best to strengthen these programs for today’s seniors and for future generations.”

 

AARP is a nonprofit, nonpartisan organization, with a membership of more than 37 million, that helps people 50+ have independence, choice and control in ways that are beneficial to them and society as a whole. AARP does not endorse candidates for public office or make contributions to either political campaigns or candidates. We produce AARP The Magazine, the definitive voice for Americans 50+ and the world's largest-circulation magazine; AARP Bulletin, the go-to news source for the 50+ audience; AARP VIVA, a bilingual lifestyle multimedia platform addressing the interests and needs of Hispanic Americans; and national television and radio programmingincluding My Generation   and Inside E Street . The AARP Foundation is an affiliated charity that provides security, protection, and empowerment to older persons in need with support from thousands of volunteers, donors, and sponsors. AARP has staffed offices in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Learn more at  www.aarp.org .