Kiggans Votes to Boost Social Security Benefits for Public Servants

WASHINGTON, DC: Today, Congresswoman Jen Kiggans (VA-02) voted with the majority of the U.S. House Representatives in favor of H.R. 82, the Social Security Fairness Act. This legislation, which passed the House by a vote of 327-75-1, would eliminate Social Security’s Windfall Elimination Provision (WEP) and Government Pension Offset (GPO) provisions, allowing public service employees to collect their full Social Security benefits. 

“In today’s Social Security system, many public servants unfairly have their Social Security benefits reduced despite paying into the system throughout their careers,” said Congresswoman Kiggans. “That is wrong. Our police officers, firefighters, and teachers deserve to receive the support they’ve earned! That’s why I was proud to vote in favor of H.R. 82 to ensure these public servants finally receive their full Social Security benefits. I will continue to do everything in my power to advocate for the men and women who have dedicated their careers in service to their communities.”

Background

H.R. 82 repeals Social Security’s Windfall Elimination Provision (WEP) and Government Pension Offset (GPO), two provisions that can reduce the benefits of certain workers who also receive a pension based on earnings that were exempt from Social Security payroll taxes. The change would apply to benefits payable for January 2024 and later.

The WEP currently impacts approximately two million Social Security beneficiaries, and the GPO impacts nearly 800,000 retirees and their widows.

The legislation is endorsed by the National Fraternal Order of Police (FOP), International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF), National Active and Retired Federal Employees (NARFE), American Federation of Government Employees (AFGE), International Union of Police Associations (IUPA), American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees (AFSCME), American Postal Workers Union (APWU), American Federation of Teachers (AFT), National Education Association (NEA), and other national organizations representing America’s public servants.

You can read the full text of the bill here. 

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