I read with interest the column “Social Security proves there’s no such thing as a free lunch,” by M.D. Harmon (Oct. 26).

Mr. Harmon makes some interesting points about determining which plan would be the best for protecting programs such as Social Security and Medicare.

Now that the election is over, President Obama and Congress will determine the future of both of these critical programs. Mr. Harmon rightly points out that there are options already making their way through Washington that will likely be considered in 2013.

In fact, there are 12 proposals on the table regarding the future of Social Security and 15 on the table regarding Medicare. 

With more people living longer, both programs face challenges. Anyone interested in reviewing balanced information about the pros and cons of each proposal can go to www.earnedasay.org.

It is important to remember that according to the latest Social Security Trustees’ report, Social Security can continue to pay 100 percent of benefits until 2033 and 75 percent afterward. Making modest changes sooner rather than later will ensure the long-term solvency of this program for current and future generations.

More than 16,000 older Mainers already live in poverty. Without Social Security, an additional 41 percent would fall into poverty. One-third of Maine’s Social Security beneficiaries 65 and older rely on their benefit for 100 percent of their income.

The stakes are high, and any changes to Medicare or Social Security must be carefully scrutinized to ensure that these programs stay strong for all Americans, both now and in the future.

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