[Congressional Record Volume 156, Number 107 (Tuesday, July 20, 2010)]
[House]
[Page H5732]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




     STRENGTHEN THE SOCIAL SECURITY PROGRAM FOR FUTURE GENERATIONS

  (Mr. OWENS asked and was given permission to address the House for 1 
minute.)
  Mr. OWENS. Mr. Speaker, Social Security is a pledge to hardworking 
Americans that they will be able to retire with the dignity they 
deserve. As this treasured program reaches its 75th anniversary, we 
have a responsibility to guarantee that it remains strong for future 
generations; but as we work toward improving the long-term solvency of 
this program, we must avoid making ill advised changes, like creating 
volatile private accounts that could throw millions of seniors into 
poverty.
  These are tough economic times, particularly for seniors on fixed 
incomes. Rising health care, energy and housing costs mean too many 
seniors do not have the resources they need to live comfortably. Now, 
more than ever, Social Security is a critical safety net for millions 
of Americans.
  I urge my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to work together to 
strengthen the Social Security program for current and future 
generations. Hardworking Americans deserve to look forward to 
financially secure retirements.

                          ____________________