Democrats Celebrate Over 1 Million Pensions Rescued by 2021 Legislation

As the general election looms on the horizon, Democrats are strategically reminding union voters in Pennsylvania of the substantial benefits they’ve received, courtesy of a pandemic-era aid package. This initiative, part of the American Rescue Plan spearheaded by President Joe Biden, has been a lifeline for many. As of now, the White House proudly reports that over one million union workers and retirees have had their pensions saved thanks to the enactment of the Butch Lewis Act in the spring of 2021. As it stands, this law aims to prevent cuts to the retirement benefits of two million workers and retirees across the nation.

The financial stakes were high. Many workers were staring down the barrel of potential cuts to their retirement benefits, some facing reductions as drastic as 50%. Such cuts would have wreaked economic havoc on a staggering number of retired and retiring Americans. The Butch Lewis Act has been a crucial measure in averting this crisis, securing the livelihoods of many who have labored for decades in industries ranging from confectionery to automotive manufacturing.

To highlight these accomplishments, Biden administration officials, including senior advisor Gene Sperling, along with members of the Bakery, Confectionery, Tobacco Workers and Grain Millers International Union, converged in Hershey, Pennsylvania, with Senator Bob Casey on Friday. Their goal was to shine a spotlight on the law and its impactful benefits. Pennsylvania, a critical swing state, is receiving particular attention as Biden seeks another term in office. Rallying the union workforce is a vital strategy for the upcoming election, and showcasing the tangible benefits of the Butch Lewis Act is an effective way to garner support.

Biden’s administration has consistently emphasized the importance of protecting workers’ benefits. The president has made it clear that working families should not see their earned benefits slashed due to policies that favor the wealthy. The restoration of pensions under the Butch Lewis Act is seen as a fulfillment of Biden’s promise to protect Social Security, Medicare, and pensions, ensuring that workers who have toiled for years can retire with dignity.

However, it’s important to note that not all workers have seen their fortunes reversed. The Great Recession left many multi-employer pension plans in dire straits, with more retirees than active workers contributing to the funds. While the Butch Lewis Act has helped a significant number, there are still those who have yet to see their benefits restored. For instance, approximately 20,000 salaried workers from Delphi Corp., a subsidiary of General Motors Corp., have been fighting for the past 15 years to reclaim their lost benefits after General Motors’ bankruptcy in 2009. Unlike their union counterparts, these workers have not had their pensions reinstated, highlighting ongoing disparities and challenges within the system.

As the election approaches, the Democrats are leveraging the success of the Butch Lewis Act to solidify support amongst union workers. It underscores a broader commitment to protecting the financial security of retirees, a theme that resonates deeply with voters across the country. The preservation of pensions is more than a financial issue; it’s a promise of a stable and dignified retirement for those who have spent their lives contributing to the workforce.