As residents of Georgia know, our country continues to battle an enormous debt crisis. For this reason, the status of various government programs is a topic of political concern. Currently, a majority of Americans across party lines and demographics do not want to see Social Security benefits diluted by benefit cuts. These government benefits are provided for people in varying circumstances, such as those suffering from an illness, injury or impairment. Nevertheless, this past year on Capitol Hill was a rollercoaster ride for legislatures and advocates against reductions in determining the fate of these benefits.

In 2011, Social Security benefits surfaced without cuts to present and future beneficiaries; however, a reflection of some events over the past year shows the potential for serious reductions in 2012. For example, in April 2011, the president struck deal to prevent a government shutdown. This resolution resulted in cutting $61 billion from discretionary programs. Ultimately, the Social Security Administration's budget was reduced by $1.7 billion.

Throughout the remainder of the year, members of the legislature proposed different bills as an attempt to reduce benefits. These bills favored a reduction in exchange for a higher debt ceiling. Nevertheless, Social Security advocates in Washington organized efforts to reduce significant changes in the system. Specifically, these advocates opposed increases to the Social Security retirement age or Medicare eligibility age.

As one can see, the Social Security debate was rocky for both proponents of cuts and advocates against reductions. Despite the prevention of cuts to Social Security in 2011, the future of Social Security benefits is uncertain. As a result, 2012 will be a crucial year for this issue.

Source: Huffington Post: "The Politics of Social Security in 2011: From Supermajority to Supercommittee," Scott Hochberg, Jan. 3, 2012