Repeal of DOMA Should Bring Social Security Equity to LGBT Families
Repeal of DOMA Should Bring Social Security Equity to LGBT Families
“Today’s Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA) decision impacts more than one thousand areas of federal law, including Social Security. For too long same-sex couples and many of their children have been denied access to Social Security benefits, even though they have contributed to the program throughout their working lives. Overturning the Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA) should end this benefit discrimination by enabling the Social Security Administration to allow same-sex spouses to receive the Social Security spousal and survivor benefits they are otherwise entitled to.
It’s time for the Obama administration and Congress to follow the Court’s lead and reverse this benefit inequity. With the way now cleared thanks to DOMA’s repeal, we urge the Social Security Administration to move quickly to review and revise its policies regarding benefits for same-sex couples. In Congress, any legislation that may be necessary to implement this ruling and provide benefits to LGBT families should be allowed a prompt hearing and floor vote. ” Max Richtman, NCPSSM President/CEO
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Media Inquiries to:
Pamela Causey 202-216-8378/202-236-2123
Kim Wright 202-216-8414
www.ncpssm.org
