NO COLA FOR SSI RECIPIENTS IN 2010

I have to disagree with the Obama administration on the lack of a cost of living adjustment increase for SSI recipients in 2010. The Obama administration instead has authorized a one time $250.00 rebate that was given last year. Many Montanans recieve far less than the average $1,094.00 average SSI disbursement. Low-income seniors, people with disabilities and other Native Americans in particular will be especially hard hit by this decision.

I urge all Montanans affected by this decision to contact the White House at 202-456-6213 to express your comments on this issue. The ever-rising costs of health care and prescriptions drugs may force many people to choose between their needed medications, food or staying warm during the approaching winter. This is not a choice people should have to make.

melinda gopher