Urges Congress and President enact "Social Security Fairness Act."
Impact
If enacted, the 'Social Security Fairness Act' would significantly alter the current landscape of social security benefits for certain public sector workers in New Jersey. The GPO effectively disallows many retirees from receiving full benefits if they also receive pension payments, while the WEP systematically reduces earned benefits for those who have contributed to Social Security in prior jobs. These laws disproportionately affect public service workers, particularly among New Jersey's police, fire, and municipal employees, who have dedicated their careers to serving the community yet face steep penalties in their retirement income.
Summary
Assembly Resolution No. 145 urges Congress and the President of the United States to enact the 'Social Security Fairness Act,' which aims to repeal the government pension offset (GPO) and the windfall elimination provision (WEP) of the Social Security Act. These provisions currently penalize individuals who are entitled to benefits from public retirement systems, impacting the financial stability of many public employees, including law enforcement officers and firefighters. The resolution highlights the importance of Social Security, noting that it serves as a crucial income source for millions of American retirees and their families.
Contention
Notably, there is controversy surrounding the provisions being targeted by the resolution. Proponents of the 'Social Security Fairness Act' argue that the GPO and WEP unfairly penalize public service workers, causing financial stress, especially for families reliant on these benefits for their livelihoods. Critics, however, may argue about the fiscal implications of repealing these provisions, especially considering broader concerns regarding Social Security funding and the ramifications on the overall system. The resolution seeks to amend legislation that many believe undermines the financial well-being of those who have served their communities in high-risk professions.
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A resolution recognizing the expiration of the Equal Rights Amendment proposed by Congress in March 1972, and observing that Congress has no authority to modify a resolution proposing a constitutional amendment after the amendment has been submitted to the States or after the amendment has expired.