I am updating information from my recent letter to the editor concerning efforts to repeal the Windfall Elimination Provision. A bill identical to last year’s H.R. 5697 is now in the U.S. House of Representatives. Called the Social Security Fairness Act, H.R. 711 was filed for the 2015 session by Rep. Kevin Brady, R-Texas, and Rep. Richard Neal, D-Mass.

If this can become a law, it will stop the unfair loss of Social Security benefits for many people because of the Windfall Elimination Provision.

I urge people to contact their representatives urging them to support H.R. 711. Writers should personalize their communication and explain in detail how the Windfall Elimination Provision decreases their Social Security benefits.

I also urge them to contact Sen. Susan Collins and Sen. Angus King and urge them to help create a 2015 Senate version of the bill.

Everyone should informed as to which committee will have the bills and when there will be public hearings. Remember, individuals can make a difference, and the more pressure put on people and organizations can only help to get rid of the unfair and unjust Windfall Elimination Provision.

In the future, there will also be efforts to repeal the Government Pension Offset, which also affects Mainers and others in 14 states.

Karen E. Holmes

Cooper