The movement to repeal the Windfall Elimination Provision (WEP) and Government Pension Offset (GPO) has reached a critical moment. After the U.S. House passed the Social Security Fairness Act in November, the Senate is preparing for a decisive vote that could happen at any moment. The bill would restore full Social Security benefits to approximately 2.8 million public employees, including teachers, firefighters, and police officers, whose benefits have been unfairly reduced by these provisions. (Source: MSN News)

Next Steps in the Senate

The Senate's upcoming vote will require 60 affirmative votes to send the bill to President Biden for final approval. While challenges remain, the bill's progression represents a critical opportunity to correct decades of inequities for public employees. Advocacy efforts continue to build momentum, urging lawmakers to prioritize fairness and equity for affected workers.

Why This Matters

WEP and GPO have long penalized public workers who earned Social Security benefits through other jobs. Critics of these provisions argue that they are unfair, outdated, and disproportionately harm public servants. Repealing these rules is not just a matter of financial fairness—it's about recognizing the contributions of millions of workers to our communities.

While the bill has garnered bipartisan support, it has also sparked debate within the Republican Party. Some GOP lawmakers advocate for the repeal, emphasizing fairness for public servants, while others raise concerns over its financial implications.

Public Support Grows

Public support for the repeal is surging. A petition on MoveOn.org titled "Elimination of the Unfair WEP/GPO Provisions" has garnered thousands of signatures, reflecting widespread demand for change. In addition, a Change.org petition demonstrates continued advocacy efforts by affected individuals. These petitions highlight the urgency of addressing long-standing inequities and the public's role in advocating for policy reform.

Your Voice Is Needed – Contact Your Senators!

TEXPERS urges all members, stakeholders, and supporters of public employees to take immediate action. With the Senate vote imminent, your voice can help ensure the bill's passage. Here's how you can help:

1. Call Your Senators – Reach out to Senators John Cornyn and Ted Cruz directly to express your support for the Social Security Fairness Act:
   • Sen. John Cornyn: 202-224-2934
   • Sen. Ted Cruz: 202-224-5922
   • Share your story or explain how WEP and GPO have impacted you, your family, or your community.
2. Encourage Others to Act – Spread the word through your networks. Use social media, emails, or conversations to urge others to call their senators and support the repeal of WEP and GPO.
3. Sign and Share Petitions – Add your name to ongoing petitions like MoveOn.org's and Change.org.
4. Participate in Advocacy Events – Join local or national advocacy campaigns that push for the repeal. Attend town halls or legislative meetings to amplify your voice.

TEXPERS' Role in Advocacy

TEXPERS has been at the forefront of this effort, working tirelessly to raise awareness and encourage legislative action. TEXPERS has played a critical role in ensuring the bill reaches this pivotal stage through direct communication with lawmakers and mobilizing its member systems. Now, we need your help to cross the finish line.

Why Now?

A Senate vote could happen at any moment. This is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to correct decades of inequities for public employees. With strong bipartisan support, we are closer than ever to repealing WEP and GPO—but every call, email, and petition signature counts.

Make Your Voice Heard Today!

Together, we can push for a fair retirement system for all public employees. Let's make sure our Senators hear us loud and clear. The time to act is now.

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