House and Senate Democrats renew call for Social Security benefit adjustment

Sen. Blanche Lincoln (D-Ark.) last week joined Democrats in both chambers in
renewing her call to compensate Social Security beneficiaries who will
not receive a cost of living adjustment (COLA) next year. 

The Social Security Administration on Friday announced that, similar to 2010, no COLA would be administered in 2011. Rep. Earl Pomeroy (D-N.D.) last week signaled that his chamber would take up legislation in the lame-duck session that would provide a $250 check to individuals who depend on the trust fund to make ends meet. Lincoln has called on Senate Democratic leaders to do the same. 

“It is unacceptable that for the second year in a row, our seniors will not be receiving their Social Security COLA, and the Senate should take immediate action upon returning to session in November,” she said in prepared remarks. 

Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid (D-Nev.) has already signaled that he will seek a vote on legislation in the lame-duck to provide a one-time payment to Social Security recipients.