DOGE Plans to Rebuild SSA Code Base in Months, Risking Benefits and System Collapse
The Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) is preparing to overhaul the Social Security Administration’s (SSA) outdated computer systems, which heavily rely on the COBOL programming language. This transition, aimed to be completed in just a few months, raises grave concerns about the stability of the benefits system for millions of Americans.
Key Points
- DOGE plans to migrate SSA’s systems off COBOL, a programming language known for its age and complexity.
- The current systems contain millions of lines of code, and a safe transition typically requires years.
- Rapid system changes risk jeopardising the benefits and services relied upon by tens of millions of citizens.
- Implementing such a critical update in a short timeframe raises alarms about potential system collapse.
- Stakeholders express concern over the effects this transformation could have on the SSA’s operational integrity.
Why should I read this?
This article highlights a significant shift in government technology management that could impact social service reliability for millions. Understanding the implications of such a rapid transition is crucial for those interested in technology, governance, and the social safety net. The article sheds light on the urgency and risks tied to modernising outdated systems, a topic of growing relevance in discussions about government efficiency and data integrity.