Scott and Murphy propose bill to repeal Social Security retirement earnings test

3 articles · Updated · CNBC · Apr 27

The Senior Citizens' Freedom to Work Act, introduced in both chambers, would eliminate benefit reductions for retirees earning above $24,480 before full retirement age, affecting millions of working seniors.
Supporters argue the test is outdated and discourages work, while critics warn of short-term funding impacts on Social Security's trust funds, which are projected to be depleted by 2034.
The proposal has bipartisan attention amid a growing older workforce, but its prospects in Congress remain uncertain as lawmakers weigh its popularity against the program's long-term solvency challenges.

Does this bill truly help low-income seniors, or does it mainly benefit those with higher earning potential?

Beyond the earnings test, what are the real barriers keeping older Americans from working longer?

With Social Security's trust fund at risk, is now the right time for a change that increases short-term payouts?

If more seniors work, how will it impact wages and job opportunities for younger generations?

How would eliminating the earnings test change the fundamental purpose of Social Security retirement benefits?