Sanford Bishop: “I feel it is a blessing that many people today are able to continue working and leading productive lives when they reach…”

“I feel it is a blessing that many people today are able to continue working and leading productive lives when they reach their golden years. That is why I urge my colleagues to support the Senate amendments to this bill. Productivity helps give meaning to life. For many it helps prolong life. We should honor our seniors, not deny them what is rightfully theirs. The earnings penalty is a disincentive to work. In today's world, many seniors need the extra income, particularly when burdened with the high cost of prescription drugs and other essential needs. With so many seniors needing every single penny, we must help them in any way we can. It is about time that we reach out and help our mothers, our fathers, and all those who have helped to shape this Nation. Currently, the amount of income withheld from Georgia beneficiaries exceeds $91.2 million yearly and more than $4.2 billion is withheld nationally. This measure will not only put money in the pockets of nearly 17,000 Georgians but more than 700,000 seniors nationwide. Let us send this bill to the President and eliminate this burdensome earnings penalty.”