Rhode Island Senate Bill S2794

Rhode Island 2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/20/24
• Refer: 3/20/24

Caption

SENATE RESOLUTION RESPECTFULLY REQUESTING THE UNITED STATES CONGRESS TO REPEAL THE GOVERNMENT PENSION OFFSET AND THE WINDFALL ELIMINATION PROVISION FROM THE SOCIAL SECURITY ACT AND FOR PRESIDENT JOE BIDEN TO SIGN THAT LEGISLATION INTO LAW

Impact

The Government Pension Offset reduces Social Security benefits for spouses and survivors who receive government pensions, while the Windfall Elimination Provision affects how benefits are calculated for those who have also worked in non-government jobs. The resolution emphasizes that these provisions disproportionately harm public sector employees, including police officers, firefighters, and teachers, who may face difficulties ensuring a secure retirement due to the reduction of their Social Security benefits.

Summary

Senate Bill S2794 is a resolution introduced in the Rhode Island General Assembly that seeks to petition the United States Congress to repeal two specific provisions from the Social Security Act: the Government Pension Offset and the Windfall Elimination Provision. These provisions adversely affect individuals who are entitled to both a pension from government employment and Social Security benefits, particularly impacting those who rely on these benefits for financial security in retirement. The resolution reflects the concerns of the Rhode Island legislature regarding the fairness and effectiveness of these provisions in providing adequate support to retirees.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding SB S2794 include the challenge of changing federal law, as the bill's effectiveness ultimately relies on Congress's ability to repeal these provisions. Many argue that these offsets and provisions undermine the original intent of Social Security as a safety net for retirees, while others may contend that modifying these policies could lead to increased financial strain on the Social Security system. The bill calls attention to the growing number of individuals affected by these provisions, highlighting the need for legislative reform not just at the state level but also federally.