Tell Congress: Stop Playing Games with Social Security‏!

Later this week, the House plans to vote on a Balanced Budget Amendment to the Constitution. At first glance, it may sound like a good idea. But look again. It actually would do serious harm to critical public services — including Social Security — and undermine the government's ability to respond to recessions and other emergencies.

Tell your Representative — Stop Playing Games with Social Security and Oppose the Balanced Budget Amendment!

Social Security benefits would be at particular risk. Under this amendment, any year that total federal spending exceeded total revenue, Social Security benefits could be cut to balance the budget — even if the Social Security Trust Fund held more than enough to pay benefits in full for many years.

Many vital programs could be slashed. The budget passed by the House earlier this year made drastic cuts to many programs — but it still didn't balance the budget until after 2030.

The federal government would lose the flexibility to respond quickly to recessions, emergencies and new challenges. During economic downturns, the expansion of federal programs such as extended unemployment benefits, Medicaid, and SNAP (Food Stamps) helps struggling families, relieves pressure on state budgets, and helps stabilize the economy. Families and states rely on the ability of the federal government to respond quickly and effectively to economic crises and other emergencies.

Act Now — Tell your Representative to Oppose the Balanced Budget Amendment.

While the nation needs to address its long-term fiscal challenges, the Balanced Budget Amendment is an unfair and irresponsible approach.

We need your help to make sure this amendment does not pass!