AFSCME Celebrates End of GPO-WEP with Social Security Fairness Act

WASHINGTON – In a landmark move, President Joe Biden has enacted The Social Security Fairness Act, bringing significant changes to the benefits system for public service retirees. This new legislation eradicates the Government Pension Offset (GPO) and Windfall Elimination Provision (WEP), which had long been a concern, affecting over two million retired public service workers by limiting their Social Security benefits.

AFSCME's Positive Response

Lee Saunders, President of the American Federation of State, County, and Municipal Employees (AFSCME), expressed great satisfaction with this development. “Finally, GPO-WEP is gone for good. These outdated rules denied over two million retired public service workers their hard-earned Social Security benefits,” Saunders said in a statement following the President's signature on the Act.

A Victory Decades in the Making

The passage of this law signifies the culmination of years of hard-fought advocacy and persistent efforts. AFSCME members, including those currently working and those retired, spearheaded initiatives such as petitions, letter-writing campaigns, and even direct visits to congressional representatives. Their determination has now materialized in this significant legislative change.

“This historic victory follows decades of relentless organizing,” Saunders noted, acknowledging the challenging journey towards achieving this outcome. The union's consistent campaigning, alongside efforts by public service workers across the nation, underscores a pivotal moment in ensuring financial security for retirees.

Recognizing Key Contributions

AFSCME extended gratitude towards supportive congressional members, highlighting the contributions of Sen. Chuck Schumer, Sen. Sherrod Brown, Rep. Abigail Spanberger, and Rep. Garret Graves in the legislative process. Their alignment with AFSCME's objectives was integral to the passage of the Act.

Saunders also praised President Biden for his role in this success, stating, “And we applaud President Biden for delivering another monumental win for public service workers.” This legislative change not only secures retirement benefits but also encourages prospective workers to enter public service with the assurance of a secure future.