Equal COLA Act
Sponsors:
Rep. Connolly, Gerald E. [D-VA-11]
Status: ASSUMING FIRST SPONSORSHIP - Mr. Walkinshaw asked unanimous consent that he may hereafter be considered as the first sponsor of H.R. 491, a bill originally introduced by Representative Connolly, for the purpose of adding cosponsors and requesting reprintings pursuant to clause 7 of rule XII. Agreed to without objection.
(2025-09-16)
View Original Bill Text
Plain Language Summary
The Equal COLA Act is about giving federal government retirees the same cost-of-living increases that Social Security recipients get. Right now, some federal retirees get smaller increases than Social Security when prices go up. This bill would make sure all federal retirees get the full cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) every year. COLA means extra money added to checks to help pay for things when they get more expensive.
Key Points
- Federal retirees would get the same cost-of-living increases as Social Security recipients
- Currently, some federal retirees receive smaller increases when the cost of living goes up
- The bill would ensure all federal retirees get full COLA adjustments every year
Who This Affects
This bill would affect federal government retirees who receive pensions. It would give them larger cost-of-living increases each year to help their retirement income keep up with rising prices for food, housing, and other expenses.
Arguments For
- Federal retirees should get the same protection against rising prices as Social Security recipients
- Many federal workers earned lower salaries during their careers and deserve fair retirement benefits
Arguments Against
- Increasing federal retirement benefits would cost taxpayers more money
- Some argue federal retirees already receive better benefits than many private sector workers
Fiscal Impact
No fiscal impact estimated
Summary generated by AI (claude-sonnet-4-5-20250929). For informational purposes only.
Always refer to the original bill text for legal accuracy.