Northwest PA News

U.S. Representatives Glenn “GT” Thompson (R-PA) and David Trone (D-MD) have introduced the Health Care Worker and First Responder Fairness Act, aiming to exempt health care workers and first responders from Social Security’s Retirement Earnings Test (RET) during public health emergencies.

Currently, the RET affects individuals who have not reached full retirement age but wish to claim Social Security benefits while still earning wages. Under existing regulations, their Social Security benefits are reduced if they continue working. The proposed bill seeks to retroactively restore benefits for health care professionals and first responders whose benefits were reduced or eliminated during the COVID-19 public health emergency. Additionally, it would exempt these individuals from being subject to the RET in future public health crises.

“Having spent nearly 30 years in rural health care before coming to Congress, I know firsthand the sacrifices made by frontline workers and first responders,” Rep. Thompson stated. “In a time of great need, many people came out of retirement without realizing their benefits would be impacted. This is unfair to those who stepped up in a time of need. This legislation will correct this problem and will remove an unnecessary barrier to future service in case of a national emergency or public health crisis."

Rep. Trone added, “Frontline workers and first responders across the country dedicate their lives to serving others, often putting their own health and safety on the line. When we faced an unprecedented pandemic, many of them stepped up once again to protect their communities. The very least we can do is ensure that their Social Security benefits aren’t impacted because of their continued commitment to serve. That’s exactly what this legislation will do.”

The National Rural Health Association and the Federation of American Hospitals support this legislation.

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