On December 12, 2024, the U.S. Senate voted unanimously to pass the Social Security Fairness Act, aimed at repealing the Windfall Elimination Provision (WEP) and Government Pension Offset (GPO). This legislation, co-sponsored by Senators John Boozman (R-AR) and Sherrod Brown (D-OH), seeks to rectify perceived injustices faced by public sector employees who also contributed to Social Security. The Senate’s decision came after extensive discussions, with 58 lawmakers co-sponsoring the bill, signifying bipartisan support for the cause. The act is projected to benefit nearly 2 million retirees who have been penalized under the current provisions, allowing them to receive full Social Security benefits they have earned. Senator Boozman stated, ‘This legislation ensures that public servants are not unfairly punished for the hard work and contributions they have made.’ He emphasized the importance of providing a fair system for those who have dedicated their careers to serving the public. The bill is now set to head to the House for final approval before it can be signed into law. The move has been well-received by various organizations advocating for retired public employees. If passed into law, the Social Security Fairness Act could mean additional financial security for millions of Americans, marking a significant shift in retirement policy. Advocates express hope that this legislative momentum will foster greater recognition of the contributions of public workers.
Senate Approves Social Security Fairness Act, Affects Millions of Retirees
