BROOKSVILLE — The days of automated phone calls, lines and long commutes could be coming to an end for local Social Security recipients.
In an effort to alleviate those problems, the Social Security Administration has created a pilot project called "eCongressional," which allows regional congressional offices to have access to sensitive Social Security information affecting local recipients.
U.S. Rep. Ginny Brown-Waite's office is one of three around the country selected to test the program.
"This program gives one more option for people who receive Social Security," said Cassie Smedile, spokeswoman for Brown-Waite.
The program operates on a secure online network that ensures the confidentiality of the users while they communicate electronically and seek information pertaining to their accounts.
Typically, this information is offered over a telephone or in person at offices in major cities such as Tampa.
"ECongressional" is not going to replace any existing methods of communication for recipients. It is expected to provide an additional way for people to readily get answers to their questions. The instant messaging system will allow residents and congressional staffers to communicate back and forth with the Social Security Administration.
Brown-Waite's 5th Congressional District, along with a district in South Carolina and another in New Mexico, are the first to jump on board eCongressional, which began operating in June at Brown-Waite's district office at 6020 Spring Hill Drive, south of Brooksville.
Brown-Waite, who has lobbied for this program for years, is the first to begin using eCongressional in Florida, but hopes it can expand to other areas around the state, Smedile said.
There are more than 250,000 Social Security recipients in the 5th District, Brown-Waite said.
There are virtually no costs for the pilot project, according to the Social Security Administration.
ECongressional is using existing technology and a secure messaging system already in place.
"I quickly realized the need for my office to be able to send secure transmissions to the Social Security Administration and began to work with SSA towards that goal," Brown-Waite said.
She said she's already seen the benefits of having the system in her office.
"Already, my staff and I have found the system to be a quick and efficient means of addressing the needs and concerns of Social Security beneficiaries," Brown-Waite said.
Social Security commissioner Michael Astrue applauded Brown-Waite for being one of the pioneers in establishing the program.
"I'm really pleased that Congresswoman Ginny Brown-Waite has agreed to participate in our new pilot program," Astrue said. "This new pilot will help both her and Social Security provide even better service to Florida residents."
If you go
Learn to use it
Hernando Social Security recipients can visit U.S. Rep. Ginny Brown-Waite's office at 6020 Spring Hill Drive, south of Brooksville, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. weekdays or call (352) 799- 8354 for information on the new "eCongressional" system.
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