The American Federation of Government Employees (AFGE) has expressed serious concerns that a lack of staff could trigger the nationwide closure of Social Security Administration (SSA) offices. A field office in Southeast Cleveland, Ohio has been closed due to persistent staffing issues, one of several recent closure-related complications.
The AFGE, which represents 750,000 government staff, suggests that the SSA is experiencing difficulties due to inadequate funding, contributing to the largest staff reduction in nearly 30 years. This severe downsizing has shone a light on the financial and operational struggles plaguing the administration.
Jessica LaPointe, President of the National Council of SSA Field Operations Locals, warns that understaffing could cause disruption of essential services to recipients of social security benefits. According to her, the SSA, which is the country’s largest provider of support for the elderly and disabled individuals, is suffering from delayed assistance an increased wait times due to lack of sufficient funding and staffing.
At the root of the crisis, LaPointe points out, is insufficient funding which exacerbates high staff attrition through inadequate pay, benefits, and workloads. She criticizes Congress for not providing enough funds for replacing staff, improving workspace, and delivering competitive remuneration and benefits.
Staffing crisis risks SSA office shutdowns
She strongly advocates for immediate corrective actions, including increased budget allocations and greater leadership commitment.
Meanwhile, SSA Chief Martin O’Malley has proposed a $1.3 billion increase in 2023 to ease operational constraints and improve customer service in SSA field offices. This 9% increase would enable modernisation of technology systems and additional hiring to reduce wait times, especially for disability claims. Despite potential resistance in Congress, O’Malley remains hopeful about this necessary intervention.
In response, the AFGE and the Wisconsin Alliance for Retired Americans plan to orchestrate statewide protests to spotlight the SSA’s budgetary pressures, drawing public attention to the urgent crises facing the SSA.
Adding to the urgency, LaPointe observes, is a sharp increase in demand for SSA services because of the large wave of baby boomer retirements. Despite this surge, she notes, Congress has cut the Social Security’s budget by 20% over the past decade. These issues were highlighted by reporter Omar Mohammed.
