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President Biden signed a significant Social Security bill on Sunday, repealing two long-standing provisions that have reduced benefits for public sector workers like teachers, firefighters, and others for decades.
Speaking at the signing of the Social Security Fairness Act, Biden emphasized its core purpose: “This bill is about a simple principle: Americans who have worked hard their entire lives deserve to retire with dignity and economic security.” He reminded the audience of the original vision for Social Security crafted by President Franklin Delano Roosevelt nearly 90 years ago—a program designed to ensure financial stability for retirees.
The bill passed with strong bipartisan support, reflecting its widespread importance. The Senate approved the measure with a decisive 76-20 vote late last month, following the House’s overwhelming 327-75 approval earlier.
The Social Security Fairness Act eliminates two provisions that have long impacted retirees relying on public sector pensions. The Windfall Elimination Provision (WEP), introduced in 1983, had reduced Social Security benefits for those receiving government pensions not covered by Social Security. Similarly, the Government Pension Offset (GPO), enacted in 1977, diminished benefits for spouses, widows, and widowers who relied on their partner’s public sector pension.
Senator Susan Collins (R-Maine), who sponsored the bill, expressed her pride in attending the historic signing. “I was honored to witness the enactment of this long-overdue legislation,” she shared on social media.
This repeal is a meaningful step toward ensuring that hardworking public servants receive the full benefits they have earned, reinforcing the principle of fairness and security in retirement.