Nearly 50 million Americans – disproportionately, people of color — do not have access to a retirement savings account at work.  And for millions who do have access to a workplace retirement savings account, their 401(k) is their only form of savings.

The economic crisis caused by COVID-19 is forcing many to ask critical questions about the retirement savings system in the US.  Why doesn’t every American have access to a tax-advantaged savings account to invest and grow their money?  What amount of liquidity is the right amount– for emergencies both big and small? How do we create accessible retirement benefits — regardless of who people are, where they work, or how much they get paid?