Social Security Semantics — What’s the Difference Between a Cut and Reform?

As lawmakers battle over the future of Social Security, it raises an important question about semantics… specifically what is a “cut?”

As The Hill explains, many Democrats think any change to Social Security that could decrease benefits should be considered a “cut.” On the flip side, Republicans believe safety-net changes — such as proposals to increase the retirement age or change the cost-of-live adjustment (COLA) — are not cuts but rather “reforms.” The article points out that we can expect to see a lot more of this semantics feud as those in Washington work to come to an agreement about raising the debt ceiling. If they can’t come to a consensus, we could see a government shutdown this summer.

The Seniors Trust believes both sides need to come together and do something to secure the long-term solvency of Social Security — now! We stand behind the Social Security Expansion Act. It would extend Social Security for another 75 years while also giving retirees an immediate benefits boost.