Looming Deficit Commission Deadline Leaves Much at Stake in Idaho

Commission Proposals Due to Congress Dec. 1, AARP Urges Sen. Crapo to Consider Impact on Idaho Families & Middle Class

BOISE, Idaho, Nov. 30, 2010 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Reducing the nation's deficit may seem an issue as far away from Idaho as the nation's Capitol – but under some proposals, it could land on kitchen tables across the state, taking a harsh toll on many Idahoans.  

With Social Security and Medicare on the President's Deficit Commission's chopping block, AARP is urging Idaho's own Commission member, Senator Mike Crapo, to consider the impact of any cuts on Idaho families and the middle class in his home state as he weighs proposals.  The Commission's deadline for sending final proposals to Congress for consideration is tomorrow.  

"AARP is reminding Senator Crapo that younger Idahoans will grow old in a world where Social Security and Medicare are needed more than ever," said Jim Wordelman, State Director for AARP in Idaho.  "Any proposals that leave Americans with smaller Social Security benefits and larger health care costs in the future is, simply put, a recipe for disaster."

In Idaho, roughly 17% of residents receive Social Security, with an average monthly benefit of a modest $1,045.  The benefit keeps 35.7% of the state's 65+ out of poverty, making up 50% of income for nearly 52% of older Idahoans, and 90% of income for 25%.  AARP opposes any proposals that threaten the financial security of current and future generations by cutting Social Security.  

"We know some gradual and moderate changes are needed to preserve a strong Social Security program," added Wordelman.  "But the point must be to strengthen the retirement security of American families and protect future generations, not use Social Security to reduce a deficit it didn't create."

AARP also stands in strong opposition to proposals shifting costs onto the elderly in Medicare, resulting in a tax on the sick.  In Idaho, 15% (230,000) of residents receive health care through Medicare.

AARP is Idaho's largest membership organization with over 180,000 members.

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SOURCE AARP Idaho