Modernize and improve Social Security benefits.

The Social Security program keeps millions of people out of poverty in the U.S. -- many of them women. Throughout their lives, women on average are paid less then men, and they often work at part-time jobs or take extended leave from the workforce for raising children and other forms of caregiving. As a result, women are less likely to have pensions, investments or life savings, making them extremely vulnerable in retirement.

In addition, women rely on Social Security for disability benefits and to help provide for their family when...