Saud Anwar

Senator Anwar Joins Congressman Larson, Senator Blumenthal for Unveiling of Federal ‘Social Security 2100’ Legislation

Today, State Senator Saud Anwar (D-South Windsor) joined U.S. Congressman John B. Larson (CT-01) and U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) for the unveiling of “Social Security 2100: A Sacred Trust.” The legislation has nearly 200 cosponsors and has received more than 100 endorsements from advocacy groups. Lieutenant Governor Susan Bysiewicz, Hartford Mayor Luke Bronin, State Representative Jillian Gilchrist (D-West Hartford) and State Representative Amy Morrin Bello (D-Wethersfield) also joined the federal leaders. Congressman Larson is chair of the House Ways and Means Social Security Subcommittee.

Social Security 2100 represents an increase in Social Security benefits for seniors who need them now more than ever. It includes a 2% bump in benefits for all beneficiaries, would adjust the cost-of-living adjustment formula to better protect against inflation, protects low-income workers by setting the new minimum benefit at 25% above the poverty line and repeals provisions that currently penalize public servants, among other changes. It would further apply the payroll tax to wages above $400,000, which would only impact 0.4% of wage earners; extends the depletion date of benefits to 2038 and establish a social security trust fund to protect benefits.

“Social Security has long been a promise – pay into it now, and receive benefits when you become eligible,” said Sen. Anwar. “And every time our federal leaders do not act, the promise becomes weaker, and may potentially be broken in the future. I’m grateful to Congressman Larson and Senator Blumenthal for their foresight and tenacity in introducing this legislation that will ensure Social Security remains available for all generations who need it – and it is only becoming more necessary as time passes.”

“Social Security 2100: A Sacred Trust will expand benefits and strengthen Social Security. The pandemic has only underscored what we already knew and has exacerbated systemic inequities — current benefits are not enough! 5 million seniors are living in poverty due to longstanding discrimination in the labor force that affects mostly people of color and women. These are our sisters, brothers, aunts, uncles, and neighbors. For too long, Congress has forsaken its duty to enhance benefits. With 10,000 Baby Boomers a day becoming eligible, and with Millennials needing Social Security more than any generation, the time for Congress to act is now,” said Congressman Larson.

“Social Security is a sacred commitment made to all Americans and a promise that must be fulfilled. As seniors and individuals with disabilities struggle to afford the costs of food, housing, and prescription drugs, this bill expands benefits and protections for millions of Americans. The Social Security 2100 Act will keep this vital lifeline solvent and ensure our nation’s bedrock social insurance program provides current and future beneficiaries with a quality standard of living,” said Senator Blumenthal.

“Almost two-thirds of retirees rely on Social Security for a majority of their income,” said Lt. Governor Bysiewicz. “Now is the time to take bold action and address these issues, and now is the time to keep our seniors and retirees out of poverty by providing them with the dignity and security that they deserve. I want to thank Congressman John Larson, a champion for seniors in our state and across the country as he fights to protect and strengthen Social Security benefits.”