In a landmark decision, the Senate has voted to pass the Social Security Fairness Act, eliminating the Windfall Elimination Provision (WEP) and Government Pension Offset (GPO) that have unfairly reduced benefits for millions of retirees. This victory ensures that public service workers and their families will no longer be penalized for their years of hard work.​

For years, retirees and advocates have fought tirelessly for this change, emphasizing the inequities that the WEP and GPO created for educators, police officers, firefighters, and other public employees. The passage of this bill is not just a legislative achievement but a testament to the power of collective advocacy and the unwavering commitment of union members across the country.

Among those who played a pivotal role in advocating for the Social Security Fairness Act was Bette Marafino, a respected leader from Council 400. Bette was interviewed by CNBC in the days leading up to the Senate vote, where she highlighted the devastating impact the WEP and GPO have had on retirees—particularly those living on fixed incomes. “These provisions have unjustly penalized public servants who dedicated their careers to serving their communities,” Marafino said in the interview. “Passing this bill will bring long-overdue relief to retirees and ensure they receive the benefits they earned.”

Marafino’s voice was just one of many in Council 400 and unions nationwide who advocated for fairness and equity. For months, our members sent letters, made phone calls, and met with lawmakers to demand action. This victory demonstrates the critical role unions play in securing legislative wins that protect the dignity and well-being of working families.

The passage of the Social Security Fairness Act means that retirees who were previously penalized can now look forward to receiving their full Social Security benefits. For many, this will mean the difference between financial hardship and stability.

As we celebrate this historic achievement, we must also remain vigilant. While the passage of the Social Security Fairness Act is a significant victory, it reminds us of the work still needed to protect and expand retirement security for all workers. Our focus must now shift to ensuring the passage of the Social Security 2100 Act. This critical legislation would not only fully fund Social Security for generations to come but also prevent potential benefit cuts that could jeopardize the stability retirees deserve.

Council 400 will continue to lead the charge, advocating for policies that strengthen Social Security and protect the rights of retirees. We encourage all members to stay engaged, as our collective efforts are essential in securing these vital protections.

We thank every member who participated in this fight and applaud Bette Marafino for her leadership and advocacy. This victory belongs to all of us who believe in fairness, justice, and the power of collective action. Together, we are making a difference for today’s retirees and future generations.