The Social Security Administration (SSA) has announced that it will end a major research program that focuses on retirement and disability policies. This decision follows President Donald Trump’s executive order aimed at eliminating DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) programs in government agencies.
This move will save taxpayers about $15 million in 2025, but some experts worry about its long-term effects on Social Security research and policy development. Let’s take a closer look at what’s happening, why it matters, and what comes next.
Why Is Social Security Ending This Program?
The Retirement and Disability Research Consortium (RDRC) has been a key part of Social Security’s policy studies for years. It involved top universities, including:
University of Michigan
Boston College
National Bureau of Economic Research
City University of New York (CUNY) Baruch College
University of Maryland, Baltimore County
University of Wisconsin-Madison
This program provided valuable research on Social Security, retirement trends, and disability benefits. However, the Trump administration’s executive order calls for cutting government-funded DEI-related programs, which led to terminating this agreement.
According to Acting Commissioner Lee Dudek, the move aligns with the administration’s efforts to reduce wasteful government spending.
How Much Money Will Be Saved?
Estimated savings: $15 million in 2025
The SSA argues that shutting down the RDRC will reduce unnecessary spending, helping to lower costs for American taxpayers. However, critics argue that this decision may hurt future Social Security policy improvements.
What Does This Mean for Social Security Research?
Potential Impact on Future Policies
By ending the RDRC, the government loses access to key research that helps improve Social Security programs. Without these studies, policymakers may struggle to address issues like rising retirement costs, disability claims, and long-term funding challenges.
Mixed Reactions from Experts
Some support the decision, believing it eliminates wasteful spending. Others oppose it, arguing that research is critical to keeping Social Security programs strong for future generations.
Final Thoughts
The SSA’s decision to end its research program is part of a larger push to cut DEI-related initiatives under the Trump administration. While this could save $15 million, it also raises concerns about the future of Social Security policy research.
With legal challenges still in progress, it remains to be seen whether these cuts will stand—or if DEI-related research will continue in some form.
For now, taxpayers may see short-term savings, but the long-term impact on Social Security planning and benefits is still unknown.