1 min read

I do not support President Bush’s plans for partial privatization of Social Security. Social Security is not in crisis, despite Bush’s claims.

How about these options?

• Eliminate the cutoff for contributions to Social Security. It makes no sense to cap contributions for incomes above $90,000. All income should be taxed. Everyone should contribute to this country’s social insurance.

• Institute a cap for retirement income, above which no Social Security benefits are paid. Start at $50,000 per person (which is very generous) and adjust for inflation annually. If an individual is fortunate enough to make $50,000 a year in other income while retired, they certainly don’t need Social Security benefits and that will leave more for those who really do need it.

Run the numbers on these changes and see where we stand before taking the reckless steps our president suggests.

Glenn Dudley, Lewiston

Comments are no longer available on this story