Senate Stiffs Seniors on $250 Stimulus!

Retirees Despondent After Senate’s Refusal
of $250 Payment to Seniors

Would Have Helped Many with Life-saving Medications

The following statement was issued today by Edward F. Coyle,
Executive Director of the Alliance for Retired Americans,
in reaction to the Senate’s failure to pass a $250 Economic
Recovery payment for seniors,veterans,and persons with
disabilities.

“Retirees are frustrated and despondent after both President
Obama’s and Sen. Bernie Sanders’ calls for a $250 payment to
help those struggling in this recession have so far fallen
on deaf ears. This proposed act of compassion, had it passed,
would have helped 49 million Social Security recipients,
many of whom have seen their retirement savings and home
values badly shaken by this economic crisis. This helping
hand would have made a real difference in seniors’lives."

“It was bad enough when retirees were told they would not be
receiving a Social Security Cost-of-Living-Adjustment in
2010.  In the worst economy since the Great Depression, it
is unbelievable that Congress has shoveled hundreds of
billions of dollars to Wall Street Robber Barons, yet the
Senate has denied seniors a $250 check.  That amount would
not even cover dinner for one of Wall Street’s fat cats!"

“The purchasing needs of seniors are unique, and often
include medications needed to stay alive.  We insist that
the Senate realize the importance of this $250 payment to
struggling retirees.”

“Alliance members demand that seniors not be ignored, and
will continue their grassroots lobbying in support of this
payment.”