The Senate is racing against time to pass the Social Security Fairness Act, a bill aimed at providing full benefits to millions of Americans, before the end of the year. Key Republicans are raising concerns about the bill's cost and suggesting it be addressed during broader tax or financial reform.
Congress is running out of time to pass the Social Security Fairness Act.In a final lame-duck push, the Senate will attempt to pass legislation aimed at providing full Social Security benefits to millions of Americans this week. A key test vote to advance the measure is set for 2 p.m. Wednesday. The bill will need 60 votes to clear this procedural hurdle and head toward final passage.
Though the legislation has 62 co-sponsors, it's possible that Republicans might block it from advancing in opposition to the nearly $200 billion it adds to the federal deficit. There are also a number of Republicans who appear to think addressing Social Security fairness would be easier in the context of tax reform or other financial reform next year. 'There was a lot of conversation around today, as you might expect, and I think in the end it's going to come down to individual members are going to make their own decisions about where they want to come down on that,' incoming Republican leader John Thune said at a press conference Tuesday. 'Obviously I am concerned about the long-term solvency of Social Security and that is an issue I think we need to address.' Majority Leader Chuck Schumer said in floor remarks on Monday that he'd push for a vote before the week is out. 'We will vote and every Senator will choose. Where are you? Do you stand on the side of public retirees who deserve their benefits, or bungle this golden opportunity by blocking this bill?' Schumer said. The closely watched legislation repeals provisions that limit the ability of some retirees who also collect pensions from claiming Social Security benefits. Among those impacted are retirees who at one time worked as firefighters, teachers, postal worker, a police officer, or in other public sector jobs. A provision that limits the benefits allotted to those workers' surviving spouses would also be eliminate
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