Political Quotes

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong support of H.R. 4532. This legislation will ``permanently extend fee withholding procedures which allow Social Security and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) recipients to pay fees to lawyers and representatives in successful applications for benefits directly out of a claimant's benefits, such as SSI disability.'' ``The legislation would set the criteria for an eligible non-attorney representative, including requirements that a representative have a bachelor's degree, pass an examination, have professional liability insurance, and undergo a criminal background check. In addition, the bill would allow the Social Security Commissioner to assess `reasonable fees' on recipients participating in the program. The program, which was last extended in 2004, is set to expire on March 1, 2009.'' Mr. Speaker, it is known that proper representation for Social Security is a must, in order for individuals to obtain their benefits. In some cases, many may not be able to afford attorneys, hence losing the capability to acquire benefits, which are directly related to the well-being of their life. I am very eager for this legislation to pass, so those citizens, who have desperate needs, would be able to have them met. By extending and continuing this ``fee withholding'' procedure, which is the practice of the Social Security Administration, this would open the opportunity for citizens to receive the proper representation.…”