consumers and are not necessarily representative of the geographic areas, retail outlets, and sample items used and purchased by senior citizens. (8) The locations used under the methods referred to in paragraph (5) are urban locations that do not reflect the economic challenges faced in rural communities, which often have a far larger demographic segment of senior citizens. (9) Senior citizens neither have the flexibility or the ability that younger consumers have to substitute necessary purchases in response to changes in prices, nor the same options as younger consumers have to supplement their income. (10) Premium increases for part B of Medicare, part D of Medicare, and other health care costs affecting senior citizens are not adequately considered under the methods referred to in paragraph (5). (11) The cost of taxes on Social Security income is not considered under the methods referred to in paragraph (5), thus putting senior citizens at a greater economic disadvantage each year. 3. Mandate the monthly formulation and publication of a consumer price index for seniors (a) Establishment of new CPI The Bureau of Labor Statistics of the Department of Labor shall prepare and publish an index monthly to be known as the Consumer Price Index for Seniors (hereinafter referred to as CPI–S ) that indicates monthly changes in expenditures for consumption that are typical for individuals in the United States who are 62 years of age or older. (b) Submission to Congress The Bureau of Labor Statistics of the Department of Labor shall submit to the Joint Economic Committee a description of the actions taken by such Bureau to meet the requirements of this section not later than 6 months after the date of enactment of this Act, and semi-annually thereafter. (c) Authorization of appropriations There are authorized to be appropriated such sums as may be necessary to carry out the provisions of this section.