Cape News

Social Security Subcommittee Chairman Ron Estes (KS-04) opened a joint hearing of the Subcommittees on Social Security and Work & Welfare to address challenges faced by individuals with disabilities seeking employment. The hearing comes shortly after the 90th anniversary of the Social Security Act.

Estes acknowledged the contributions of committee members, including Chairman Smith and Congressman Carey, as well as Representative Danny Davis for his long service in Congress. Estes emphasized his commitment to strengthening Social Security programs for all Americans, particularly those with disabilities.

He highlighted recent collaboration with Social Security Commissioner Frank Bisignano, noting a productive meeting at a Wichita field office. Estes said these discussions focused on how Congress and the Social Security Administration can improve outcomes for beneficiaries.

Estes pointed out that 1.7 million Americans are currently missing from the workforce while more than 7 million jobs remain open. He identified people with disabilities as an underutilized talent pool, stating that about 60 percent of Disability Insurance (DI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) recipients are interested in employment or career advancement.

“This is not about removing folks from their benefits. It’s about removing the barriers that hinder Americans with disabilities from renewing, strengthening, or forging a connection to the workforce,” Estes said.

He described the current system as “complex and full of red tape,” making it difficult for both individuals and employers to navigate DI and SSI programs without third-party assistance. Administrative delays can result in overpayments, creating financial difficulties for those attempting to return to work.

“The complexity, red tape, and need to rely on third-party experts just to navigate the rules is a massive obstacle for both individuals and employers,” Estes added.

Estes called for reform aimed at modernizing programs without changing their fundamental purpose. He said there is an opportunity to remove government barriers, streamline communication, and update existing systems so that more Americans with disabilities can join the workforce.

“We have an opportunity to remove government barriers, streamline communication, and modernize existing programs to help individual Americans who want to participate in the workforce. By doing so, we will not only improve individual lives but strengthen our economy as a whole,” he stated.

He concluded by again thanking Representative Danny Davis for nearly thirty years of service in Congress.

Jason Smith is currently serving in the U.S. Congress representing Missouri’s 8th district; he has held this position since 2013 after replacing Jo Ann Emerson (source). Smith previously served in the Missouri House of Representatives from 2005 until his election to Congress (source). Born in St Louis in 1980, Smith now resides in Salem (source). He graduated from the University of Missouri with a BS degree in 2001 and earned his JD from Oklahoma City University in 2004 (source).