Earlier this summer, we reported that acting Social Security Administration Commissioner Carolyn W. Colvin was chosen to lead the agency permanently.
However, more than six months later, her confirmation has been stalled as Republican leaders have questioned her handling of a computer system contract for the agency.
According to the Baltimore Sun, in August, all but two Senate Finance Committee members approved Colvin’s nomination. However, with a delay in place over the initial holdouts, now all 11 Republicans on the committee have signed a letter indicating that new information has become known about the failed computer system intended to speed the processing of Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) claims.
Republicans are now concerned about whether SSA officials misled the public about the extent of the system’s problems.
“We cannot in good faith allow a nomination for any position that requires the advice and consent of the Senate to proceed to a vote as long as the specter of a potential criminal investigation surrounds the nominee and/or those in their inner circle,” read the letter from Utah Sen. Orrin Hatch, according to the Sun.
Many people working for the SSA have noted that the failed computer system was implemented under Colvin’s predecessor, Michael J. Astrue, saying she began an investigation into the matter last year. Several news outlets reported this year that the agency spent $300 million on the revamped computer system over the last six years, but it still does not work.
I Need Help Applying for SSDI Benefits
Hopefully, there will be an investigation into the computer program and/or Colvin will be cleared, and her nomination will proceed. There are many people who rely on Social Security benefits, so the agency has many issues that will need to be addressed by its leadership in the future.
If you need help applying for SSDI, you can speak to our attorneys. We offer our services on a contingency fee basis, meaning no money is paid to us unless there is a successful outcome for your case.
Troutman & Troutman, P.C. – Tulsa Social Security disability lawyers
