SOCIAL SECURITY
Statement of Michael J. Astrue, Commissioner of Social Security, Commending the President’s Fiscal Year 2009 Budget Request

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By requesting $10.46 billion for Social Security’s administrative expenses, the President has demonstrated with this budget proposal that he supports our efforts to drive down the disability backlog with faster and more accurate decisions.  With a six percent increase over our 2008 appropriation, which would be the largest increase this agency has received for some time, we also can significantly improve the service in our field offices and teleservice centers.

I urge Congress to enact this budget proposal, and to do so as soon as possible.  Any delays would severely undermine what the President wants to achieve for all Americans with his request for Social Security. 

For more information about the President’s 2009 budget request for Social Security, visit www.socialsecurity.gov/budget.

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