Rep. Schneider Helps Introduce Bill to End LGBT Discrimination in Social Security

U.S. Congressman Brad Schneider (IL-10) today helped introduced the Social Security Equality Act, which would guarantee that same-sex couples are not denied the Social Security benefits to which they are entitled. The bill would offer equal access to the Social Security benefits that heterosexual couples receive to same-sex couples in the 18 states that recognize same-sex marriage or civil unions.

“This is a fundamental question of fairness, and I believe there is absolutely no reason why hardworking people who have paid into Social Security over a lifetime should be denied the benefits they’ve earned, regardless of who they love,” said Schneider. “The Supreme Court has made its ruling loud and clear, and it’s now time to ensure that equality truly becomes the law of the land.”

Schneider has been an active and vocal supporter of LGBT equality, helping introduce the Respect for Marriage Act and the Employment Non-Discrimination Act, in addition to urging the Supreme Court to overturn the Defense of Marriage Act and lobbying Illinois state lawmakers to pass marriage equality.