Hilda L. Solis: “today I rise to voice my concerns regarding Social Security privatization and how it is going to affect hardworking…”

“today I rise to voice my concerns regarding Social Security privatization and how it is going to affect hardworking Hispanics and Latino families and especially the women Latinas. About 46 percent of older Latinas depend entirely on Social Security in retirement. In fact, 60 percent of Latinas over the age of 65 would live in poverty if they did not receive Social Security. If President Bush privatizes Social Security, young Latinas in their 20s and 30s will see their benefits cut by at least 30 percent. Latina moms rely on Social Security also if their husbands become injured or die. The work injury rate for Hispanics in the year 2000 was 16 percent compared to 11 percent of the overall population. Therefore, Social Security disability benefits are particularly important for Latinas and their families. The President's plan will not help Latinos or our families. Let us start talking about real solutions, helping our families that work very hard day in and day out. ____________________”