Press Conference, Senate Swamp, March 7, 2000–11:45 a.m.
Seniors Salute Ashcroft
Celebrate Retirement of Earnings Test
Retirement will be a “Super Friendly Day” for Seniors
Statement by 60 Plus President Jim Martin

Washington, D.C. — Hailing the expected Senate vote to repeal the 33% depression-era tax as a “super friendly day for seniors,” 60 Plus Association President Jim Martin praised Senator John Ashcroft (R-MO) for authoring S. 2074, The Social Security Earnings Test Elimination Act.

“The 60 Plus Association has long sought repeal of this unfair tax on seniors in the 65-69 age group. Repeal is a significant step toward fulfilling the 60 Plus slogan, “Tax Fairness for Seniors”.

“This tax was imposed in the 1930’s when unemployment was at 25% to create job openings for younger workers. It takes away $1 out of every $3 in benefits from workers making $17,000. This penalty mostly hurts those seniors who have to continue working to make ends meet.

“This antiquated tax should be retired and 60 Plus Association seniors in Missouri and all over the country commend Senator Ashcroft for his leadership on seeing that it is retired in this session of Congress.

“It has been noted that this tax has outlived its time, that it’s bad policy and should be repealed. 60 Plus couldn’t agree more.”

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