Biden signs Social Security Fairness Act into law

President Joe Biden has signed the Social Security Fairness Act into law, marking one of the final significant legislative actions of his presidency. In a ceremony on Sunday, Biden emphasized the critical role of Social Security in ensuring economic security and dignity for hardworking Americans, stating that he was "proud to have played a small part in this fight."

The new law repeals provisions that restricted certain retirees, including firefighters, teachers, police officers, and other public sector workers, from fully claiming Social Security benefits if they also received pensions. Additionally, it eliminates a related provision that limited benefits for the surviving spouses of these workers. This move is expected to provide much-needed support for millions of retirees.

The Social Security Fairness Act received overwhelming bipartisan support, having passed the House in November and the Senate in December. A White House official highlighted that Biden is the first president in over 20 years to expand Social Security benefits, noting that the bill will increase monthly benefits by hundreds of dollars for more than 2.5 million Americans.

As Biden seeks to bolster his legacy, he has positioned this legislation alongside his broader efforts to strengthen Social Security in the face of ongoing Republican calls for cuts. Lawmakers from both sides of the aisle have praised the act, recognizing its importance in supporting the nation’s workers.

Senator Bill Cassidy (R-La.) expressed gratitude for honoring the promise of earned benefits, while Democratic Senator Sherrod Brown of Ohio highlighted the benefits for 250,000 workers in his state, framing it as a victory for the dignity of work. The Social Security Fairness Act not only marks a significant legislative achievement but also symbolizes a commitment to protecting the financial wellbeing of the American workforce.