I am hearing reports that some Social Security field offices in at least two states are refusing to deal with attorneys and others during the government shutdown. Of course, I’ve heard nothing suggesting this is authorized. I have a vague recollection that this happened in an earlier shutdown before field offices were told to knock it off.
The refusal of one party to enter in a CR has devastating consequences for all of us.
ReplyDeleteApparently, they are reading the provision dealing with third party requests as meaning representatives. A note from NOSSCR said the higher ups are trying other straighten that out and that they can talk to us. Probably wishful thinking on their part since they don't want to talk to us anyway. At least in my case, I have been able to speak to Social Security several times today, albeit after being on hold for thirty minutes each time except when I get though on an Admin line.
ReplyDeleteMost attorney business SHOULD be unaffected. A 3288 immediately springs to mind as something we are unable to process.
ReplyDeleteCan confirm that my office has been advised by the Cherry Hill, NJ field office that they will only speak with claimants.
ReplyDeleteDid anyone catch how many at SSA are eligible for RIF under the SSA plan submitted to OMB? Is it just those deemed non-essential or deeper?
ReplyDeleteToledo, OH office refused to speak with my staff earlier today.
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