[Weimdog]

Is this something we can thank Daschle for?

[Ceoman]

It goes up every year..not a surprise. I think it is an automatic increase each year. There used to be a limit on Medicare, but they discontinued this a few years ago. Perhaps someone can shed more light on this.

[Leto]

This isn't Puff's fault per se (only to the degree that he blocks any attempts to reform this ponzi scheme). This is a result of the system being put on autopilot by the Monihan Dole reform in the mid 80's. It relieves the pols from accountability for yearly tax increases to cover the cost of entitlement programs.

[TN Republican]

The amount of the increase was known at least a year ago, if I recall my tax prep materials correctly. They probably passed 2003's increase last year, and will be working on 2004's this year. Of course, there won't be anything done with the SS reform plans until after the election.