AG James v. SSA: Battle Over Social Security Benefits

New York – In a bold move against the Social Security Administration’s (SSA) recent layoffs and chaotic management, New York Attorney General Letitia James has united with 20 other state attorneys general to protect millions of Americans’ access to vital benefits.

Attorney General James and her coalition filed an amicus brief in American Association of People with Disabilities v. Dudek, aiming to halt the staff cuts imposed by Acting SSA Commissioner Leland Dudek and the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE). The attorneys general assert that these reductions threaten the continuation of Social Security payments for millions.

“Millions of New Yorkers rely on Social Security benefits to meet their basic needs,” said Attorney General James. “We are standing up against those who would undermine our most vulnerable communities.”

The SSA’s staff cuts, which have seen approximately 2,800 employees retire or take early buyouts, have led to extended wait times and service disruptions. The coalition argues that these measures are not improving efficiency but exacerbating problems.

Acting Commissioner Dudek’s inconsistent leadership has caused widespread confusion as office closures were announced and then reversed. Despite false claims by the Trump administration and DOGE of massive improper payments, SSA’s Inspector General reported less than one percent of benefits paid between 2015-2022 were improper.

In February, Attorney General James penned a letter to Acting Commissioner Dudek opposing the proposed closure of the White Plains hearing office and reduction in services at the Poughkeepsie field office. These actions would have severely impacted thousands of New Yorkers. The coalition includes attorneys general from 20 states, led by New York.