Bill Repealing Social Security’s WEP and GPO
May Come to House Floor Vote
Legislation that would repeal programs that eliminate or reduce Social Security retirement benefits for some federal employees may come to a House floor vote soon. Representative Rodney Davis (R-IL) has secured more than 290 cosponsors for the Social Security Fairness Act (HR 82) which would eliminate both the Windfall Elimination Provision (WEP) and the Government Pension Offset (GPO). Under House rules, Davis filed a motion last month to force a vote on the bill, which has never been voted on before in the House.
The WEP and GPO provisions reduce or eliminate Social Security benefits for those who are covered by a government (federal, state or local)-sponsored guaranteed pension plan, such as federal employees who are covered by the Civil Service Retirement System (CSRS).
Mahalo to Honolulu Retiree Gary Lum for sharing this news on HR 82.
Updated August 25, 2022
Honolulu Magazine Spotlights
15 Trailblazing Women
Photo: Aaron K. Yoshino
Spotted in the April issue of Honolulu Magazine, Leading Wahine: Meet 15 Who Inspire and Push Honolulu Forward in Everything showcased retired battalion chief Debbi Eleneki who, 35 years ago, was the only female firefighter. Her path to serve the community was instilled from her dad, Peter Akiona, a retired rescue firefighter who never expected her to follow in his footsteps. He instilled in her the values of respecting others, giving back and keeping your word. Those ethics prepared her to enter the firehouse in 1987 with heart, humility and hard work. She is one of 15 women featured in the article.
Frequently Asked Questions during COVID-19
The Employees’ Retirement System is providing answers to some frequently asked questions received from the membership during the COVID-19 pandemic. ERS offices are located on Oahu, Maui, Kauai and Hawaii island and are open from 7:45 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday, except State Holidays.
For answers to these questions, see Frequently Asked Questions during COVID-19
Q: During the COVID-19 situation, can I borrow upon or withdraw my Employees’ Retirement System contributions?
Q: What should I know about my ERS benefits if I am no longer employed by the state or county? (i.e. unused sick leave, years of service, retirement contributions, etc.)
Q: How do I know if I am eligible to retire?
Q: How can I calculate an estimate of my retirement benefit?
Q: What are the deadlines for filing for retirement?
Q: What are some of the proof-of-age document requirement changes during COVID-19?
Q: I recently retired, but because of COVID-19 can I change my retirement option and beneficiary?
The ERS call center can be reached at 808- 586-1735, or by email: [email protected]. Full contact information: https://ers.ehawaii.gov/resources/contact-us.
For the latest information on ERS office-visit procedures, please see the message at the top of our website (www.ers.ehawaii.gov).
