WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA) has announced that nearly 73,000 Louisianans have already received a combined $566 million in retroactive Social Security payments following the repeal of the Windfall Elimination Provision (WEP) and the Government Pension Offset (GPO). The payments follow Cassidy’s efforts to pass the Social Security Fairness Act, which overturned the decades-old provisions that reduced benefits for public sector employees.
“$566 million has already been given back to Louisiana families, and there is more to come,” said Senator Cassidy. “This is a great victory for every police officer, firefighter, nurse, teacher, and public servant who has waited so long. I’m grateful to the Trump administration for their quick work.”
Impact on Louisiana Retirees
Louisiana ranks seventh among all states in total retroactive payments received since the Social Security Administration (SSA) began disbursing funds on February 25, 2025. The agency expects to complete nearly all retroactive payments by the end of March 2025, with adjustments to ongoing monthly benefits beginning in April 2025.
Prior to the repeal, 94,000 Louisianans were penalized under WEP and GPO, which disproportionately affected public sector employees, including teachers, first responders, and government workers.
- The Windfall Elimination Provision (WEP) was enacted in 1983 and reduced Social Security benefits for individuals who also received a government pension from employment not covered by Social Security.
- The Government Pension Offset (GPO) was enacted in 1977 and reduced Social Security spousal benefits for widows, widowers, and spouses receiving government pensions.
Cassidy’s Leadership in Social Security Reform
Senator Cassidy played a pivotal role in securing the passage of the Social Security Fairness Act, which was signed into law on January 5, 2025. His advocacy included multiple speeches on the U.S. Senate floor urging bipartisan action, and he was a long-time cosponsor of the legislation since 2009.
Cassidy has also been a leader in broader Social Security reform, assembling a bipartisan working group focused on preserving and protecting the program for future generations. Last year, he pressed U.S. Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen on the administration’s plan for Social Security, highlighting the urgent need for action.
What’s Next for Beneficiaries?
- Retroactive payments began on February 25, 2025, and are expected to be completed by the end of March.
- Monthly benefit adjustments for affected retirees will begin in April 2025.
Cassidy continues to advocate for long-term solutions to ensure Social Security remains strong for future retirees.