We realize it may be a stretch for ordinary people to want to keep up with the comings and goings of the Social Security Administration, but sometimes circumstances permit where someone does want to follow the latest news regarding the agency due to a possible retirement or disability interest. This blog is an ongoing piecemeal of recent stories that have involved Social Security. Some are tidbits and some are important things that should be known in the world of retirement or disability and others are just interesting stories and nothing more.
Distinguished Service Award
Social Security Deputy Commissioner for Operations Grace Kim was recently awarded the Presidential Rank for Distinguished Service. Kim, who is in charge of providing service to the public and was one of 48 federal civil servants to the receive the award.
The Civil Service Reform Act of 1978 established the Presidential Rank Awards Program to recognize a select group of career members of the Senior Executive Service (SES) for exceptional performance over an extended period of time. Later, the Rank Award statute was amended to extend eligibility to senior career employees with a sustained record of exceptional professional, technical, and/or scientific achievement recognized on a national or international level.
New National Native American Office Established
Acting Social Security Commissioner Kilolo Kijakazi recently announced that Social Security has established an Office of Native American Partnerships within the Office of the commissioner. According to information from Social Security, this office will elevate and centralize efforts to administer comprehensive programs and policies related to American Indians and Alaska Natives. It will enhance the agency’s relationship with Tribes and serve as the primary point of contact on Tribal affairs for all stakeholders.
