Program Archives - DR News - News, Retirement, Finance

Social Security: Important Program Faces Funding Shortfall by 2035

Social Security, a lifeline for millions of Americans, remains a program shrouded in confusion for many. The future of the Old-Age, Survivors, and Disability Insurance (OASDI) trust funds, vital components of Social Security, is a topic of concern as projections indicate that their ability to fully fund benefits may only last until 2035 without legislative intervention. Similarly, Medicare’s Hospital Insurance Trust Fund is on track to exhaust funds by 2036 if no changes are made. …

Health Care Advocates Push for Rhode Island Medicare Savings Program Expansion to Help Low-Income Seniors

Providence, Rhode Island – As May unfolds, it marks the celebration of Older Americans Month, a time of importance for the Senior Agenda Coalition of Rhode Island. This nonprofit organization focuses on advocating for policies and programs that enhance the quality of life for elderly individuals in the state. One critical aspect of aging well is ensuring economic security, which involves having enough financial resources to cover essential needs such as healthcare. Data from the …

Expansion of CT Paid Family and Medical Leave Program Approved by House

HARTFORD, CT – The House in Connecticut recently voted to expand the state’s Paid Family and Medical Leave law, sending the legislation to the governor for final approval. The bill, Senate Bill 222, includes various provisions aimed at improving the current program, such as requiring employers to report to the Paid Family and Medical Leave Insurance Authority and giving the authority more power to address fraudulent filings. One key addition to the bill is the …

Social Security Recipients to Receive Double Payments in May for SSI Program

Los Angeles, California – Retirees in America often face financial struggles, but this month brings a much-needed boost for some through a new Social Security payment. In May, qualifying recipients of the Supplemental Security Income (SSI) program stand to receive over $2,800 in monthly benefits, providing vital support for those in need. Individuals earning less than $1,971 per month are eligible for the SSI direct payment, with varying income limits for couples and parents filing …

Benefits: 2024 Social Security Program Changes Impact Retirees’ Finances

Chicago, Illinois – Social Security beneficiaries in 2024 are facing several changes that will impact their benefits and finances. One of the significant adjustments this year is a 3.2% cost-of-living increase, pushing the average retirement check to $1,864.52 per month. While this adjustment is lower than last year’s, it still exceeds the average over the past few decades. The impact of this change will vary depending on factors such as the type of benefit and …

Healthcare Milestone: Olympic Hurdler Drives Change for Maternity Support Program in Track & Field

Washington, DC – Olympic hurdler Christina Clemons played a significant role in advocating for a new health care insurance program for athletes, particularly new mothers returning to competition. Clemons raised concerns within the track community regarding the gap in health care coverage for women who desired to continue competing after giving birth. Her efforts led to the unveiling of a program by USA Track & Field that expands maternity support to assist athletes in reintegrating …

Children in Social Security Crisis: Thousands Removed from Program

Detroit, Michigan – The social security system in Detroit, Michigan has been under scrutiny due to the recent removal of thousands of children from its benefits. This development has sparked debates among both policymakers and advocates for social security reform. The decision to remove these children from social security benefits has raised concerns about the potential impact on low-income families in the area. Many are worried about the financial hardships these families may face without …

Medicaid Expansion Legislation Met with Opposition from Georgia Governor, Despite Pathways Program Launch

Atlanta, Georgia – Governor Brian Kemp recently signed a high-profile healthcare measure into law, sparking renewed discussions on the potential for full Medicaid expansion in the upcoming year. Despite his firm stance against full expansion, Governor Kemp emphasized the need for more time to implement and enroll individuals in the Pathways to Coverage program. Launched last July, Pathways to Coverage aimed to partially expand coverage for low-income Georgians who meet certain activity requirements. However, the …

OPM Enforces New Measures to Ensure Integrity of Federal Health Benefits Program

WASHINGTON, DC – The Office of Personnel Management has introduced new measures aimed at safeguarding the Federal Employees Health Benefits Program for family members of federal employees and retirees. The initiative outlined by OPM Associate Director Lore Bodenheimer seeks to enhance the integrity of the FEHBP following reported gaps in determining eligibility and potential improper payments ranging from $500 million to $3 billion annually. In response to these findings, federal agencies will be required to …

Medicare Advantage Program Slashed Despite Biden Vow: Impact on 33 Million Seniors

Washington D.C., USA – During the recent State of the Union Address, President Biden made a firm promise to protect Medicare benefits for all seniors. However, despite this pledge, the Centers for Medicare Medicaid Services (CMS) have implemented cuts to the Medicare Advantage program, affecting 33 million seniors across the country. In a recent hearing before the Senate Appropriations Committee, Health and Human Services Secretary Xavier Becerra faced tough questions from lawmakers regarding the cuts …