Norm Wernet, President of the Ohio Alliance for Retired Americans, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to speak about the passage of the Social Security Fairness Act and its positive impact nationwide on millions of retirees.
On Jan. 5, President Joe Biden signed the Social Security Fairness Act into law. The legislation repeals the Windfall Elimination Provision, which reduced Social Security benefits for workers in jobs not covered by Social Security, such as teachers, firefighters, police officers and other certain state and local government positions that qualified for a public pension. Additionally, the bill repealed the Government Pension Offset, which reduced spousal and survivor benefits for certain individuals receiving pensions.
The law applies to Social Security benefits beginning in 2024 and moving forward. Those affected will receive a lump sum benefit for 2024 and then see changes in their monthly Social Security benefits. According to the Congressional Budget Office, beneficiaries will see an average monthly increase of $360.
Wernet highlighted the grassroots nature of the campaign to pass the Social Security Fairness Act and end a 40-year fight for justice. Despite a highly partisan Congress, the act passed with overwhelming bipartisan support, demonstrating the effectiveness of persistent advocacy. This victory ensures that approximately 230,000 Ohioans, and millions nationwide, will receive the full Social Security benefits they earned.
While celebrating this victory, Wernet warned of potential threats to Social Security from the new Congress. Proposals to raise the retirement age and cut benefits pose significant risks to future retirees. He urged listeners to share their stories with lawmakers, highlighting the real-world impact of policy decisions. Wernet said individuals can influence future legislation and ensure that Social Security remains a stable foundation for all Americans.
To hear more from Wernet on the effort to pass the Social Security Fairness Act, listen to the show above.