The U.S. Congress has passed the Social Security Fairness Act, which will increase retirement payments for some public-sector retirees, including former police officers and firefighters. The Senate approved the bipartisan measure in a 76-20 vote, following a 327-75 vote in the House. The bill now awaits President Joe Biden’s signature, though the White House has not confirmed his intent.
The legislation repeals provisions that reduced Social Security benefits for retirees with pensions, impacting around 3% of beneficiaries—approximately 2.5 million Americans. Many could see their federal benefits increase by hundreds of dollars monthly, addressing long-standing inequities faced by municipal employees like firefighters and postal workers.
Critics warn the $196 billion cost over the next decade could further weaken Social Security’s finances, with the program’s trust fund already projected to run out in nine years. Budget experts, including Emerson Sprick of the Bipartisan Policy Center, argue that reforms rather than repeals are needed to ensure long-term sustainability.
Maya MacGuineas, president of the Committee for a Responsible Federal Budget, cautioned that the legislation could accelerate the program’s insolvency by six months. Republican Senator Ted Cruz criticized the measure, stating it sacrifices the interests of seniors relying on Social Security.
Supporters, including Democratic Senator Michael Bennet, emphasized the need to address broader solvency concerns later. Despite warnings, the bill garnered overwhelming support, reflecting strong advocacy from affected constituencies.
The decision highlights ongoing tensions between addressing immediate disparities and securing the future of Social Security for all Americans.
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