The U.S. House of Ways and Means Committee is scheduled to vote on H.R. 711, a bill that proposes to replace the Windfall Elimination Provision (WEP) formula. The hearing will take place Wednesday at 1P.M. CT. The Texas Retired Teachers Association (TRTA) will be bringing you details as they arrive.
This marks the first time in 30 years that a bill proposing to repeal the existing arbitrary WEP has gone to a vote. Additionally, this marks the first step towards making H.R. 711 into law. The bill first must pass out of committee before it can reach the House floor.
The WEP is an unfair, arbitrary formula that punishes public workers for their years of service. The WEP reduces retirees’ Social Security income, and its archaic, one-size-fits-all formula was instituted in 1983. Many retirees are blind-sided by the reduction.
TRTA has been working closely with Kevin Brady (R – The Woodlands) to repeal the arbitrary WEP and replace it with a newer, fairer formula. H.R. 711 proposes to provide much needed financial relief to current and future retirees.
Now is the time to contact your Congressmen. You can find their contact information here. In particular, Lloyd Doggett, who sits on the Ways and Means Committee, has yet to co-sponsor the bill. His co-sponsorship will go a long way towards passing the bill out of committee. If you are one of his constituents, it is critical that you call his office (202-225-4865).
Thank You
TRTA will be bringing you the latest updates on H.R. 711. Your membership makes our efforts at the U.S. Capitol possible! If you are not yet a member, please sign up today.
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