Mike Conaway: “I am proud to represent thousands of teachers across west Texas who have dedicated their careers to educating and…”

“I am proud to represent thousands of teachers across west Texas who have dedicated their careers to educating and preparing our children for the future. As a former member of the Midland Independent School Board, I understand the impact these selfless individuals have on our communities. Unfortunately, we honor their service to our communities by unfairly withholding Social Security benefits that they have earned through secondary employment. While this policy, known as the windfall elimination provision, was well-intended, it has proven to be ill-conceived. Many educators have been harmed by the unintended consequences that have created uncertainty and put a damper on the otherwise joyous occasion of retirement. It is imperative that we solve this issue and give our Texas teachers the ability to collect the Social Security benefits that they deserve. I remain committed to working with my colleagues in the House to find a fair and equitable resolution to this issue to ensure that our educators have access to the Social Security benefits and pensions they most certainly have earned. ____________________”