Rep. Latimer, County Executive Jenkins Announce County Offering Space to Maintain Social Security Office in White Plains

WHITE PLAINS, NY - Today Congressman George Latimer (NY-16) and Westchester County Executive Ken Jenkins announced that they have identified county space that can be used for the White Plains Social Security Office that will be closing in May.

"The expected closure of the Social Security Administration's White Plains hearing office will mean seniors and people with disabilities will have to drive long distances - as far away as New Haven and Albany - at greater expense, to fight for their rights. But that does not have to happen," said Rep. Latimer. "I am very glad to work with my friend and former colleague County Executive Ken Jenkins to offer County space to keep these important services in White Plains. I will work with officials at all levels of government to try to make this a reality."

"Our priority is ensuring that Westchester County maintains access to essential services. We are committed to supporting seniors, individuals with disabilities and many others by finding solutions that keep Social Security resources available in White Plains. I'm grateful to Congressman Latimer for collaborating with me and Westchester County to turn this request and proposed solution into a reality," said County Executive Jenkins.

In February it was announced that the Social Security Administration would not be renewing its lease for the White Plains Hearing Office. The Office has since been placed on the list of cutsmade by the so-called Department of Government Efficiency. Last week it was announced that the new Administration is planning to cut Social Security staff by 50%.

"On behalf of the AALJ, I want to thank Congressman Latimer and County Executive Jenkins for generously offering to make equivalent hearing space available in White Plains for social security disability claimants who depend on the White Plains facility to secure their benefits. If the White Plains office closes without a replacement, residents will incur the additional expense and inconvenience of traveling to far away hearing locations without consideration of where they live," said Judge Som Ramrup, President, Association of Administrative Law Judges (AALJ).

The full press conference can be found here.