Letitia James Advocates Against Social Security Cuts, Hudson Valley…

New York Attorney General Letitia James has taken a stand against the Trump administration’s proposed closure of the Social Security Administration’s White Plains hearing office and reduction in services at the Poughkeepsie field office.

Attorney General James argues that these changes will disproportionately affect the elderly and disabled residents of the Hudson Valley, who rely heavily on these offices for vital services. The letter sent to Acting Commissioner Lee Dudek emphasizes the violation of previous promises to protect Social Security.

The White Plains hearing office is a central hub for seven counties, including Dutchess, Orange, Putnam, Rockland, Sullivan, Ulster, and Westchester. Its closure will leave an estimated 2,000 cases unresolved, further burdening the already strained system.

Attorney General James also criticizes the reduction in services at the Poughkeepsie office, noting that residents would have to travel over an hour for services beyond what is currently offered. This poses a significant hardship on seniors and disabled individuals receiving Social Security support.

In conclusion, Attorney General James calls for a reconsideration of these proposed changes, emphasizing that Social Security should not be a political pawn but a guaranteed right for all citizens. She is joined in this fight by U.S. Representatives George Latimer and Mike Lawler, who express their concerns about the impact on local communities.

The closure of these offices would mean longer travel distances, increased expenses, and an overall degradation of services for vulnerable New Yorkers. The battle to keep these vital Social Security offices open continues.

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