If the U.S. Senate decides to pass the Social Security Fairness Act, they will finally be correcting a significant injustice that has affected millions of diligent workers for far too long. For decades, the Windfall Elimination Provision and the Government Pension Offset have stood in the way of workers receiving the full benefits they deserve.
Many individuals who held public sector jobs without paying into Social Security often also spent several years in private sector roles that did contribute to Social Security. Despite their efforts, because they receive a public pension, these workers see little to no return for their Social Security payments. These career trajectories often result in modest public pensions, and without sufficient Social Security benefits, these individuals face financial hardship.
Adding insult to injury, the Government Pension Offset dramatically reduces or even wipes out spousal and survivor benefits. Ironically, someone without any employment history can receive these benefits, but those who choose to serve the public are denied this vital support.
As this unfairness persists, many affected have passed away, still hoping for resolution. We are all aware that Social Security needs reform over the next decade; however, continuing to exploit these workers facing hardships is both unjust and heartless.
Mark McCloud, Newhall
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Turning to another issue, the proposed changes to Social Security by Biden and Trump seem poised to disproportionately impact women compared to men. My experience of working alongside men was marked by earning considerably less for the same roles. This inevitably led to contributing less to Social Security, resulting in significantly reduced benefits for me now.
If the Senate approves the Social Security Fairness Act and Biden endorses it, raising benefits could deplete the fund further. Conversely, if Trump opts not to tax tips and facilitates more people becoming subcontractors rather than employees, it will mean even less money funneling into the fund. It appears Republicans oppose raising the maximum wages subject to Social Security tax because this would also require corporations to pay more.
Politicians appear to mimic what insurance companies do: after you’ve paid for coverage, they diminish or revoke it.
Shirley Conley, Gardena
