Louisiana 2012 Regular Session

Louisiana House Bill HCR57

Introduced
3/27/12  
Engrossed
3/28/12  

Caption

Memorializes congress to review and consider eliminating the Government Pension Offset (GPO) and the Windfall Elimination Provision (WEP) Social Security benefit reductions

Impact

The implications of HCR57 are significant as it calls for a change in federal law that directly affects state residents. The GPO and WEP are considered to disproportionately harm those in lower-wage government jobs such as teachers, policemen, and firefighters, leading to increased financial instability for many retirees. The resolution suggests that the current provisions may even compromise the quality of life of Louisianians, particularly among vulnerable populations that include women, who are often more reliant on social security benefits due to longer life expectancy and lower lifetime earnings compared to men.

Summary

HCR57 is a resolution introduced in Louisiana aimed at addressing the adverse effects of two federal provisions, the Government Pension Offset (GPO) and the Windfall Elimination Provision (WEP), which reduce Social Security benefits for individuals receiving pension benefits from government retirement systems. The resolution seeks to memorialize Congress to consider the elimination or reduction of these provisions, emphasizing the negative financial impact they have on thousands of citizens, particularly public servants and retirees. HCR57 highlights the problem that these laws penalize individuals who have dedicated their careers to public service by adversely affecting their retirement security.

Sentiment

The general sentiment surrounding HCR57 is one of support among those advocating for the rights of public workers and pensioners in Louisiana. The resolution has garnered a favorable response from several legislative members who understand the need to protect the financial interests of those who have served the community. However, there may be contention from some who argue about the fiscal implications or complexities of changing federal mandates, marking an ongoing debate over the perceived fairness of Social Security benefits tied to public pensions.

Contention

Notable points of contention include the mechanisms of federal law that underpin the GPO and WEP, which have been in place to prevent perceived double-dipping by public employees. Supporters of HCR57 argue that these provisions serve to harm low-income retirees instead of protecting taxpayer interests as intended. The conversation around HCR57 underscores a conflict between ensuring financial security for retired public servants and the concerns regarding equitable treatment under federal social security laws.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

LA HCR93

Memorializes congress to review and consider eliminating the Government Pension Offset (GPO) and the Windfall Elimination Provision (WEP) Social Security benefit reductions

LA HCR33

Memorializes congress to consider eliminating the Windfall Elimination Provision (WEP) and the Government Pension Offset (GPO) Social Security benefit reductions

LA SCR57

Memorializes Congress to review and consider eliminating the Government Pension Offset (GPO) and the Windfall Elimination Provision (WEP) Social Security benefit reductions.

LA HCR20

Memorializes congress to consider eliminating the Windfall Elimination Provision (WEP) and the Government Pension Offset (GPO) Social Security benefit reductions

LA HCR12

Memorializes congress to consider eliminating the Windfall Elimination Provision (WEP) and the Government Pension Offset (GPO) Social Security benefit reductions

LA SCR22

Memorializes congress to consider eliminating the Windfall Elimination Provision (WEP) and the Government Pension Offset (GPO) Social Security benefit reductions.

LA SCR34

Memorializes Congress to consider eliminating the Windfall Elimination Provision (WEP) and the Government Pension Offset (GPO) Social Security benefit reductions.

LA SCR34

Memorializes Congress to consider eliminating the Windfall Elimination Provision (WEP) and the Government Pension Offset (GPO) Social Security benefit reductions.

LA HCR94

Relative to Social Security, memorializes congress to eliminate the Windfall Elimination Provision and the Governmental Pension Offset

LA HCR224

Memorializes congress to eliminate or reduce the Social Security reductions known as the Government Pension Offset and the Windfall Elimination Provision

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.