Securing Our Future: The National Retirement Security Task Force

The National Retirement Security Task Force, an evolution of the National Windfall Elimination Provision and Government Pension Offset (WEP/GPO) Repeal Task Force, has broadened its mission to encompass a more comprehensive approach to safeguarding the retirement security of Americans. This grassroots, nonpartisan, political advocacy organization is committed to advancing and protecting the Social Security system and related agencies and services critical to retirees, older Americans, and their families.

The Task Force's mission is multifaceted, focusing on safeguarding Social Security, Medicare, Medicaid, and Older Americans Act (OAA) programs and the benefits they provide. It advocates for the long-term fiscal sustainability of these programs, actively engages with legislative bodies and other stakeholders to influence responsible and equitable policy-making, and provides accurate and reliable information about related governmental policies and agencies. Additionally, the Task Force opposes the privatization of these agencies and their programs.

The National Committee to Preserve Social Security & Medicare has highlighted some of the impacts of the 2025 Fiscal Year Budget Reconciliation Bill (H.R. 1), which include significant cuts to Medicaid and the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). These cuts, totaling $1 trillion in Medicaid and $295 billion in SNAP over ten years, will have a profound impact on millions of families, including children, seniors, and working families. The bill also includes a $4 trillion increase to the debt limit, but notably, it does not end the taxation of Social Security benefits. Instead, it provides a $6,000 tax deduction for ages 65 and older, effective tax years 2025 to 2028.

In response to these challenges, the Task Force has outlined a clear plan of action. It aims to alert the public about the severity of the Medicaid and SNAP cuts, explain to the media what can be expected in the next few years, and engage with lawmakers to express concerns about the future of these programs. Additionally, the Task Force encourages supporting senior-friendly candidates and incumbents who run for the House and Senate in 2026.

The transition from the National WEP/GPO Repeal Task Force to the National Retirement Security Task Force reflects a shift in focus from addressing specific legislative issues to a broader, more comprehensive approach to retirement security. This evolution is a testament to the growing recognition of the complexity of retirement planning and the need for a coordinated effort to ensure that all Americans have access to a secure and dignified retirement.

The Task Force's initiatives and strategies are designed to safeguard Social Security, Medicare, Medicaid, and the Older Americans Act programs in the face of proposed budget cuts and fiscal challenges. By engaging and mobilizing stakeholders, the Task Force aims to influence responsible and equitable policy-making, provide accurate and reliable information, and oppose the privatization of these critical programs.

In conclusion, the National Retirement Security Task Force is a vital organization in the fight to secure the retirement security of Americans. Its comprehensive approach and commitment to advocacy make it a key player in shaping the future of retirement security and social welfare in the United States.