Universe On The Couch

Here is a program that gives out money to those who are disabled. A worthy goal, but not without problems. It is very expensive, running into hundreds of billions of dollars. And it will get more expensive with time. The population is aging, so an older workforce will run into more medical problems limiting their ability to work. There also is an increase in medical pathology in our future for each age group. This is due to factors such as excessive drug abuse, obesity and diabetes. There is also an attitude of entitlement where many people think somebody else should support them.

For clarification there are two programs, Title 2 and Title 16. Title 2 is for those vested in social security by their work histories of paying into the system. This comes from social security taxes. Title 16 is from federal income taxes and for those with no meaningful documented work history.

Now this program is very expensive-and wasteful. On a minor level, the administration of the program is expensive. But the real problem is that so many people who can work are labeled disabled and given money.

So here are my solutions that will help solve our social security solvency problems and federal deficit in a huge way:
1. Only US citizens may receive T16 benefits.
2. No child benefits-they don't work anyways.
3. All applications screened by doctors. Those without reasonable merit are rejected.
4. Only doctors (medical doctors or osteopathic doctors only) making decisions.
5. May no re-apply while case is pending, including legal challenge.
6. May not apply or receive benefits for at least one year after final decision of denial.
7. No benefits or application allowed if on AFDC.
8. Immediate cut-off for any thirty day period of incarceration.
9. Cases of those who are currently receiving benefits can be discontinued at review if grant is found to be in error.
10. Applicants rejected if illicit drug use. Ditto for current recipients. Urine drug screening will be used and immediate ceasing of benefits if positive test.

So there it is. Legitimate disabled is one thing. The rest of you get a job.