For Immediate Release

February 12, 2004

Washington, DC - Congressman Gene Green (D-TX) once again led the fight on the floor of the House of Representatives to save Texas Teacher’s Social Security spousal benefits, by opposing HR 743, the Social Security Protection Act.

 

            “The Government Pension Offset is a problem for many of our public servants, especially our teachers, police officers and fire fighters” said Green.   “After a lifetime of teaching our kids, protecting our citizens and fighting crime, these dedicated public servants find out that they’ll lose 2/3rds of their spousal benefit under Social Security. The problem also affects all employees of school districts.”

 

            “Texas teachers have already lost health care benefits due to cuts by the Legislature earlier last year.  Passage of H.R. 743 will make it worse for these folks, especially widows.  Eighty percent of Texas school teachers and retirees are women.  Sixty percent of that group is married.  Widows who are counting on their husbands' social security benefits will lose out under HR 743,” added Green.

 

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