Thompson, Trone Introduce Legislation to Bolster Health Care Workforce

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

Currently, the RET applies to individuals who have not reached full retirement age but want to claim Social Security benefits. If those individuals are still working and earning wages, their Social Security benefits are reduced. The bill would retroactively restore benefits for health care professionals and first responders who had them reduced or eliminated during the COVID-19 public health emergency and 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 said. “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.”

“Frontline workers and first responders across the country dedicate their lives to serving others, often putting their own health and safety on the line,” said Rep. Trone. “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.”

This legislation is supported by the National Rural Health Association and the Federation of American Hospitals.