WASHINGTON – U.S. Representative Jackie Walorski (R-Ind.), a member of the House Ways and Means Committee, along with Social Security Subcommittee Chairman Sam Johnson (R-Tex.) Tuesday introduced the Senior Citizens’ Freedom to Work Act of 2017.
This bill would eliminate a penalty on Social Security Old-Age (OASI) beneficiaries who choose to enter, remain in, or return to the labor force. Specifically, the bill would eliminate the Retirement Earnings Test (RET) that affects younger seniors who choose to continue working after claiming Social Security benefits. (In 2000, legislation championed by Chairman Johnson eliminated the RET for folks who are at or above their full retirement age. This bill finishes that work by eliminating this earnings penalty for all Social Security OASI beneficiaries.)
“Older Americans who want to work should be able to do so without having their Social Security benefits reduced or delayed,” Congresswoman Walorski said. “Eliminating this unnecessary penalty on seniors in the workforce is an important, commonsense reform that will reward work and simplify Social Security for those who depend on it.”
“In 2000, my bill ended the earnings penalty for seniors once they reach their full retirement age. But that’s not enough. Now is the time to eliminate the earnings penalty for all Social Security beneficiaries. It makes no sense to punish hard work, but that is exactly what the earnings test does – it reduces benefits for seniors who choose to work,” said Johnson. “By eliminating the RET for all beneficiaries, Washington will send a clear message to seniors that their work is valued and that they remain a vital part of our economy.”
Walorski represents the 2nd Congressional District of Indiana, serving as a member of the House Ways and Means Committee.
