Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer told unions and federal employee groups Wednesday that he will schedule a vote on the Senate floor on legislation to repeal two controversial tax provisions that reduce some public servants’ retirement benefits just weeks before the end of the congressional session and Democrats’ control of the chamber.
Schumer’s remarks came at a rain-soaked rally, organized by lawmakers and organized labor on Capitol Hill in support of the Social Security Fairness Act (H.R. 82), which passed the House by a 327-75 vote last month.
“I’m here to tell you that the Senate is going to take action on the Social Security Fairness Act,” Schumer said. “You’re going to find out which senators are with you, and which are against you. I’ve got all of my Democrats lined up to support it . . . and we need 15 Republicans, so let’s get them, and we’re going to have the vote. What’s happening to you is unfair, it’s un-American and I will fight it all the way.”