Senate urged to repeal GPO-WEP; Schumer promises vote.

The Facts -

  • Labor leaders call for Senate to repeal GPO-WEP affecting public workers.
  • Sen. Schumer commits to bringing the Social Security Fairness Act to a vote.
  • GPO-WEP cuts impact over 2 million retirees' Social Security benefits.


Labor Leaders and Congress Push Senate to Repeal GPO-WEP

Sen. Schumer plans Senate vote on repeal bill.

GPO and WEP are outdated laws that reduce Social Security benefits for public employees.

WASHINGTON – Public service workers and labor leaders rallied at Capitol Hill urging the Senate to pass the Social Security Fairness Act, aiming to repeal the Windfall Elimination Provision (WEP) and Government Pension Offset (GPO). The House approved the bill in November.

Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) announced plans to bring the repeal bill to a Senate vote.

The GPO-WEP affects careers dedicated to public service, such as firefighters and teachers, leaving 2 million retirees vulnerable to benefit cuts.

Voices Against GPO-WEP

Lois Carson, Ohio Association of Public School Employees: “After 40 years at Columbus City Schools, I fear losing full benefits. Supporting my family is vital. Repealing GPO-WEP brings peace of mind.”

Edward Kelly, IAFF: “Our long-standing priority is repealing WEP and GPO. Thanks to bipartisan House support, the Senate must now pass the Social Security Fairness Act for firefighters and teachers.”

Fred Redmond, AFL-CIO: “Workers deserve a fair shot. The Social Security Fairness Act restores fairness for millions whose benefits were cut. Our 13 million federation workers urge Senate action.”

Randi Weingarten, AFT: “Millions who paid into Social Security face benefit losses due to unjust laws. The Senate must act to repeal WEP and GPO, mirroring the House’s bipartisan move.”

Everett Kelley, AFGE: “SSA employees see the impact of WEP and GPO daily. It's time for the Senate to follow the House's lead and eliminate this penalty.”

Union Leaders Speak Out

Brian Renfroe, NALC: “Our 80,000 retired members and their families suffer due to WEP and GPO. Every senator must vote for fairness for public workers who served communities.”

Matt Biggs, IFPTE: “As tax cuts for the wealthiest are considered, let's help 2 million affected Americans by ending Social Security cuts. Congress, pass the Social Security Fairness Act.”

Patrick Yoes, FOP: “40 years of injustice balance the trust fund on public servants. The Senate must hold a vote on H.R. 82.”

Becky Pringle, NEA: “Educators and public servants face unjust penalties on retirement benefits. The Senate should act to pass this bipartisan bill and eliminate punitive laws for dignified retirements.”

---
Read More USA Works News