If you've opened a newspaper or watched the evening news in recent weeks, you will have heard the debate surrounding our nation's Social Security system. I'd like to take this opportunity to let you know where I stand on the issue.

Social Security is the most successful government program in our history. Currently, more than 43 million Americans benefit from funds provided by Social Security.

However, the current system faces some challenges in the coming years. As the baby boom generation begins to retire, accompanied by the fact Americans are living longer, the percentage of retirees is expected to increase significantly over the next few years, potentially overburdening the system.

The current worst case scenario states that the Social Security Trust Fund will be unable to provide retirees with the full benefits for which they are entitled beginning in 2042. However, other economists see the funding shortage happening in 2052 or even later.

Certainly, something must be done to allow future generations to take advantage of the Social Security system that has helped so many since its inception in 1935, but some of the proposals currently on the table go too far and would hurt the program in the long run.

Rather than rushing to dismantle the Social Security system that is working for millions, we need to make sure we address the long-term challenge in a way that truly strengthens the most successful entitlement program in our country's history. Therefore, I will not support any proposal that will cut benefits or put Long Island's retirees at risk of being shortchanged.

Let's not forget, retirees will not be the only ones affected by a cut in Social Security benefits. Millions of surviving spouses and disabled Americans rely on their Social Security check to stay above the poverty line. I will not support a plan placing their economic well-being in jeopardy.

I am confident we can find a solution to make Social Security stronger without cutting benefits.