Aderholt issues statement regarding Social Security office changes

U.S. Representative Robert Aderholt is wanting to reassure residents in his district that the Social Security offices in Cullman and Jasper will remain open, despite showing up on a list of government buildings that have had their leases terminated or cancelled.

The Department of Government Efficiency website has listed both the Social Security Administration offices in Cullman and Jasper under their list of real estate savings.  When one clicks on the line for the Social Security Administration office in Cullman, it brings up a box stating that the annual lease cost is $180,784 for the facility, representing $512,221 in total savings after cancelling the lease.  It also says "true termination - agency closed office."  For the Jasper Social Security Administration office, it lists the annual lease cost at $186,411, with $0 in savings and also states "true termination - agency closed office."

Aderholt says there is more to it than what is stated on the DOGE website.

"Recent reports about the closure of Social Security offices in Alabama do not tell the full story. While changes are being made, I want to reassure residents that these offices will remain open and continue serving the public as they always have,"  Aderholt said in a statement released Wednesday, March 5.

"It’s our understanding the adjustments involve the cancellation of lease agreements for hearing spaces, not the areas used for daily operations. Social Security hearings are now done virtually, and these spaces have not been used for some time, but taxpayers were still paying the rent. These changes will not impact residents' ability to access Social Security services at these locations,"  Aderholt stated.

Aderholt reassures residents that the work of DOGE is necessary, but is not being done in a manner to harm Americans.

"It’s also important to recognize that the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) plays a necessary role in ensuring responsible management of federal resources. However, its actions are not aimed at cutting vital services like Social Security—programs that hardworking Americans have contributed to throughout their lives,"  Aderholt said.  "My office remains in close contact with the Social Security Administration to ensure that essential services remain accessible to the people of Alabama. I will continue working to protect these critical programs and advocate for the services our communities rely on."