Amid widespread concerns over Social Security Administration (SSA) office closures across New York State, Representative Nick Langworthy has assured constituents that the SSA office in Horseheads will remain operational. This clarification comes in response to misinformation suggesting the office’s impending closure.
“There has been a lot of misinformation regarding the Horseheads, NY Social Security field office,” Langworthy stated. “I confirmed with the Social Security Administration that this office will NOT be closed, nor will there be any layoffs. They are simply terminating a lease on a space that was once used for hearings.”
This reassurance is particularly significant given the recent wave of SSA office closures and service reductions across the state. For instance, the SSA office in Big Flats, Chemung County, has been slated for closure, prompting U.S. Senator Chuck Schumer to demand answers and advocate for its continued operation. Schumer emphasized the essential services provided by the Big Flats office to thousands of Southern Tier seniors and families who rely on in-person assistance for their Social Security benefits.
The broader context includes the Department of Government Efficiency’s (DOGE) initiative to terminate leases for several SSA offices nationwide, aiming to reduce federal expenditures. This plan has faced criticism from various officials and advocacy groups who argue that such closures disproportionately affect vulnerable populations, including seniors and individuals with disabilities, by limiting their access to essential services.
In light of these developments, Langworthy’s confirmation offers a measure of relief to Horseheads residents who depend on the local SSA office for services such as applying for benefits, obtaining replacement Social Security cards, and addressing benefit-related inquiries. The office, located at 3345 Chambers Rd, Horseheads, NY 14845, continues to operate during its regular hours, providing uninterrupted support to the community.
While the Horseheads SSA office remains unaffected by the current wave of closures, the situation underscores the importance of clear communication and transparency from public officials to dispel misinformation and ensure that constituents are accurately informed about the status of vital public services.
