House Joint Resolution 21 took center stage during the Montana House Business and Labor Committee meeting on March 21, 2025, as lawmakers and advocates rallied to secure and strengthen Social Security for current and future generations of Montanans. Representative Connie Keogh, the bill's sponsor, emphasized the critical role Social Security plays in the lives of nearly 258,000 retirees in the state, highlighting its impact on poverty reduction among the elderly.

Keogh presented compelling statistics, noting that Social Security lifted approximately 66,000 Montanans aged 65 and older out of poverty in 2022. She countered common misconceptions about the program's financial stability, asserting that Social Security is funded through ongoing payroll contributions and has a substantial surplus of $2.7 trillion dedicated solely to its benefits.

The meeting featured a series of passionate testimonies from proponents, including representatives from Big Sky 55 Plus and Disability Rights Montana, who underscored the program's importance for seniors, individuals with disabilities, and families facing unexpected hardships. Many speakers shared personal stories, illustrating how Social Security serves as a lifeline, providing essential support that enables Montanans to maintain their dignity and independence.

Advocates called for bipartisan support to send a strong message to Congress, urging action to protect and expand Social Security benefits. They highlighted the program's historical significance in Montana, where a state-level social security system was established as early as 1923, reflecting the community's commitment to ensuring financial security for its elders.

As the committee deliberated, the overarching sentiment was clear: Social Security is not merely an entitlement but a vital earned benefit that supports the economic stability of Montana's aging population. The resolution aims to reinforce the state's commitment to safeguarding this essential program, ensuring that it remains robust for generations to come.