[Congressional Record Volume 159, Number 124 (Thursday, September 19, 2013)]
[House]
[Page H5666]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                 PRIVATE DISABILITY INSURANCE BENEFITS

  (Mr. FLEISCHMANN asked and was given permission to address the House 
for 1 minute.)
  Mr. FLEISCHMANN. Mr. Speaker, as we debate SNAP reforms, I want to 
draw attention to a recent analysis which shows that thousands of 
families avoid the need for public assistance because of private 
disability insurance benefits.
  Most of those covered by private disability insurance receive it from 
their employer. For a low premium, roughly $25 per month, workers 
receive 60 percent of their salary should they become disabled. With 
this benefit, the worker is able to provide for their families, pay 
bills, and buy food and medicines. Workers can then focus on recovery.
  A 2011 analysis by Charles River Associates highlights several 
things, like the fact that Americans underestimate the risk of becoming 
disabled. And few American households have the savings to withstand a 
loss of income.
  Because of the income offered by disability insurance, the study 
estimates nearly 575,000 families avoid both poverty and public 
assistance each year. This translates into an annual $4.5 billion 
savings. If we could cover more workers, we could save tax dollars.
  Unfortunately, only about one-third of workers have access to 
employer-sponsored disability insurance. We must raise awareness about 
both the risk of disability and the affordability of insurance.
  SNAP helps the needy, but a backup plan through insurers can provide 
generous assistance to the disabled and save taxpayer money.

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