U.S. Senate Begins Push To Expand Social Security Benefits For Millions

The Senate is moving closer to a vote on legislation that would provide full Social Security benefits to millions of Americans, aiming for potential passage in the final days of the lame-duck Congress, Stephen Groves reported for The Associated Press.

The bill seeks to eliminate policies that currently limit Social Security payouts for approximately 2.8 million individuals.

Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., announced Thursday that he would initiate the process for a final vote on the Social Security Fairness Act.

The bill seeks to eliminate policies that currently limit Social Security payouts for approximately 2.8 million individuals. “This legislation ensures Americans are not unjustly denied their well-earned Social Security benefits simply because they chose to work in public service during their careers,” Schumer stated.

The bill, which passed the House with bipartisan support, has 62 Senate cosponsors but still requires backing from at least 60 senators to pass. If successful, it would proceed to President Biden for approval.

One key Republican supporter of similar legislation last year, Sen. Mike Braun of Indiana, expressed hesitation, citing concerns about national debt. “Nothing ever gets paid for, so if it’s further indebtedness, I don’t know,” he said, adding that he is still weighing his vote.