The post-election, lame-duck session began with attainment of a longstanding goal—a major victory in which your advocacy played a major role.

In the first-ever floor vote for GPO/WEP repeal, the House voted 327-75 to do away with the Government Pension Offset (GPO) and Windfall Elimination Provision (WEP) that have robbed more than 2.8 million public servants, including many educators, of Social Security benefits they and their spouses earned.

“The House took a historic step in repealing these punitive and discriminatory laws,” said NEA President Becky Pringle. “Passage of the bipartisan Social Security Fairness Act is a major milestone—a huge victory brought forth by the tireless advocacy of educators and other public servants.” In just the last week, advocates like you sent 55,000 messages to Congress.  

In another victory, the Senate voted to renew the Secure Rural Schools (SRS) program, which made its last authorized payment in April. SRS helps support schools, roads, and other municipal services in more than 700 rural counties in 41 states.

Now, we’re pushing for Senate passage of GPO/WEP repeal and House passage of SRS renewal during THIS CONGRESS. Check out the complete list of our priorities during the lame-duck session for the Senate and the House.

In the Senate, it is more important than ever to confirm EVERY judge nominated by President Biden before the end of the year. Each one confirmed to a lifetime appointment stands as an important check on the new administration and its impact on our communities. Time is running out. The Senate must make confirming judges a top priority.

Tell Congress what you think!

In solidarity,