12/16/2025
Remember a Historic Victory Last Year - and the Critical Work Ahead
Susan Dixon, President Emerita, Federal Liaison
We need to remember and celebrate this extraordinary moment in history! After more than four decades of relentless advocacy, on January 5, 2025, President Biden officially signed H.R. 82 into law, ending the unjust Windfall Elimination Provision (WEP) and Government Pension Offset (GPO) penalties. This long-awaited victory—made possible by bipartisan leadership, national coalition-building, and the unwavering dedication of CalRTA members and partners—marks a turning point for Social Security fairness. The signing ceremony, moved up with only 48 hours’ notice, was a powerful and emotional moment for all who fought tirelessly for this cause, symbolizing both the culmination of years of perseverance and the beginning of long-overdue relief for millions of retirees nationwide.
Even with this historic victory, retirees still face serious federal challenges. Medicare Part B premiums will rise to $202.90 in 2026—far outpacing the 2.8% COLA—leaving the average retiree with only about $38 in additional monthly income. Meanwhile, rising costs in Medicare Advantage, Medigap, and Part D plans continue to erode seniors’ financial security.
Another urgent concern is the potential loss of Medicare-covered telehealth services. Unless Congress acts, the pandemic-era telehealth flexibilities will end on January 31, 2026, cutting off access to remote medical visits, mental-health appointments, specialist consultations, therapy services, and chronic-care support. Millions of seniors, especially those in rural areas or with mobility limitations, stand to lose vital care if Congress does not act soon.
Complicating matters further, key healthcare and retiree protection bills remain stalled due to congressional gridlock. The House Discharge Petition No. 10 on H.Res. 780 may be the only viable path to force action. While H.Res. 780 is not a healthcare bill itself, it creates the procedural pathway needed to bring long-delayed legislation—including Medicare, ACA, and telehealth bills—to the House floor. If the petition reaches the required 218 signatures, Congress will be compelled to debate and vote on issues that directly affect retirees’ access to care and financial stability.
As we honor the victory of January 5, we must also recommit to the work ahead. Protecting Medicare affordability, preserving telehealth access, defending the Affordable Care Act, and pushing Congress to act on overdue federal legislation remain urgent priorities. CalRTA’s advocacy—your advocacy—has proven its power. The simple process of taking action with CalRTA Legislative Alerts is how we collectively protect the benefits retirees rely on. Now it is more important than ever to stay engaged, informed, and active to ensure a secure and dignified future for all retirees.
