CONCORD, N.H. - Politicians have been talking about cuts and changes to Social Security a lot over the last year, but largely absent from these conversations have been the very people who have paid or are paying into the program. That's about to change.
AARP New Hampshire is set to embark on a statewide listening tour called "You've Earned a Say." Kelly Clark is the state director for AARP, and she says the debate about the long-term solvency of Social Security and Medicare is one that should happen with the involvement of those who pay into the programs, and not just behind closed doors in Washington, D.C.
"People are really tired of politicians trading away the benefits that they have earned, and are currently earning, and they want a voice regarding the future of these programs."
Current workers, as well as retirees, are encouraged to participate in the discussions, Clark says, because a lot is at stake for thousands of Granite Staters.
"One in five rely on Social Security for 90 percent of their income in New Hampshire, and about 178,000 seniors rely on Medicare."
When it comes to Medicare, most beneficiaries spend $5,300 a year for out-of-pocket medical expenses, which Clark says is often nearly a quarter of their annual income.
The AARP "You've Earned a Say" listening tour will feature community conversations, neighborhood events and other forums at locations around the state this spring and summer. A questionnaire to complete and more information are available at www.earnedasay.org.
