Cape News

With the repeal of Social Security's Windfall Elimination Provision (WEP) and Government Pension Offset (GPO) now signed into law, there is a demand for clear guidance from the Social Security Administration (SSA) on delivering immediate relief to those affected. This call comes from Ways and Means Committee Chairman Jason Smith and Social Security Subcommittee Chairman Ron Estes in a letter addressed to SSA Acting Commissioner Carolyn Colvin.

"The Committee on Ways and Means has devoted significant time and attention to examining the WEP and GPO, two flawed policies that impact the Social Security benefits of millions of public servants throughout the country," stated Smith and Estes. They emphasized their commitment to ensuring that the SSA implements the new law efficiently to provide timely relief.

The letter highlights the committee's efforts over recent years, including more hearings than any Congress in two decades, aimed at addressing these issues. It requests details from Acting Commissioner Colvin on how beneficiaries will receive their proper benefits without delay or undue burden. The SSA is expected to outline guidance for beneficiaries and identify any additional resources needed for immediate action, especially for those who have waited decades for relief.

The Social Security Fairness Act was signed into law on January 5, 2025, repealing WEP and GPO effective December 2023. Enacted in 1983, these provisions primarily impacted state and local government employees like teachers, police officers, firefighters, as well as federal employees with pensions exempt from Social Security payroll taxes. WEP reduced benefits for certain individuals entitled to both Social Security benefits and pension benefits not covered by Social Security. Meanwhile, GPO aimed to replicate Social Security’s dual entitlement rule for substitute plan contributions.