Next, hearing examines race ways to prevent Identity Theft by Social Security numbers. Held by two house subcommittees, this is one hour and a half. Good afternoon and welcome to todays hearing on the federal governments use of Social Security numbers. Unfortunately, chairman sam johnson was unable to be here with us today to discuss one of his favorite topics, ending the unnecessary use of Social Security numbers. I know everyone here joins me in wishing chairman johnson a speedy recovery. I would like to welcome chairman heard of the oversight and government reform committees, i. T. Subcommittee at all of the i. T. Subcommittee members joining us in ways and Means Committee hearing room today. Back in 1936 when Social Security began issuing salsa skidding numbers, they were only used to track earnings and administer the Social Security program. Back then it wasnt much thought about keeping your number a secret, but today Social Security numbers are the key to the kingdom for identity