Stay of execution for Bristol Social Security office

Press release from U.S. Rep. John Larson, moments ago:

The Social Security Administration (SSA) told the Connecticut Congressional Delegation today that it has decided to keep the Bristol office open for at least another three months while they reevaluate their decision to close it.

Senators Chris Dodd and Joe Lieberman, as well as Congressman John B. Larson CT-01, Vice Chair of the Democratic Caucus, have worked tirelessly with the community and Administration to keep this office open. Most recently, Lieberman and Dodd were successful in getting an amendment introduced and included in an appropriations bill that would prohibit SSA from closing the Bristol office until they meet certain requirements. Congressman Larson has spoken with Michael Astrue, the Commissioner of the SSA, on numerous occasions to stress the importance of this office and the hardships closing it would inflict on the community. The members have also worked to diligently to increase funding for the Social Security Administration above the levels set both by the previous year and the request of the Bush Administration.

The Social Security Office provides a vital function to the population in and around Bristol. And, the delegation has every intention of continuing to fight until a permanent decision to keep the office open is made.

Congressman John B. Larson CT-01, Vice Chair of the Democratic Caucus, spoke with Michael Astrue, Commissioner of the Social Security Administration, this afternoon. Following the conversation, Larson said:

“I would like to thank Commissioner Astrue for going above and beyond to help us keep this office open. I am thrilled at today’s news and I’m confident we will be able to keep this office open. I will continue to work with the Social Security Administration and my colleagues in the Senate to make the decision to keep the Bristol office open permanent. The office is vital to Bristol’s elderly community. I realize that, the town realizes that and now the Social Security Administration is beginning to realize that.”

Senator Chris Dodd (CT-D) said:
"This is certainly a step in the right direction, and I am confident that given this extra time the SSA will recognize the vital role this office plays in the community of Bristol and the surrounding area. This is not a matter of mere convenience for our senior citizens; it is a matter of necessity. I am sure the SSA will draw the same conclusion in three months' time."

Senator Joe Lieberman (CT – ID) said:

“I am pleased that SSA will keep the Bristol office open while they consider the negative impact of closing this vital facility. I hope that they reach the conclusion that this office must permanently remain open in order to provide critical services to the residents of this area.”


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Copyright 2007. All rights reserved.
Contact Steve Collins at scollins@bristolpress.com