Additional Coverage:
House to Vote on Social Security Bill Amid Conservative Resistance
The House plans to vote next week on a bill that would restore Social Security benefits for workers receiving other pensions. The measure had bipartisan support until the conservative Freedom Caucus blocked its progress.
Bill’s Purpose
The bill aims to repeal the “government pensions offset,” which reduces Social Security payments for spouses and widows who also receive government pensions. It would also eliminate the “windfall elimination provision,” which cuts benefits for those receiving pensions from employers that did not withhold Social Security taxes.
Conservative Opposition
Freedom Caucus members used a procedural move to table part of the bill, citing concerns about its potential cost. They argue that the $196 billion added to the federal deficit is too high.
Procedural Hurdles
Despite the setback, the bill is expected to move forward for a vote. However, passage will now require a supermajority instead of a simple majority.
Potential Beneficiaries
If passed, the bill would provide full Social Security benefits to individuals who receive other types of pensions or disability payments. This would benefit spouses, widows, and retirees in certain situations.
Next Steps
The bill will face a vote in the House, but it is unclear if it has enough support to pass the Senate. If approved by Congress, it would then be sent to President Biden for his signature.