Senator Rick Scott, chairman of the Senate Special Committee on Aging, announced the introduction of the Freedom to Work Act for Senior Citizens during a committee hearing titled “Experience Matters: Older Americans and the Workforce” on March 25.
The proposed legislation aims to remove barriers and increase flexibility for older Americans who wish to remain active in the workforce. The bill would repeal the Social Security Retirement Earnings Test, allowing seniors to earn income without facing reductions in their Social Security benefits. Senator Tommy Tuberville is co-sponsoring the bill in the Senate, while Representative Greg Murphy is leading it in the House.
The hearing followed a December 2025 session that explored how older Americans strengthen the national economy through work, caregiving, volunteering, lifelong learning and other activities. Witnesses at this week’s hearing included Rachel Greszler of Advancing American Freedom; Johnny C. Taylor Jr., president and CEO of SHRM; and Jason J. Fichtner of the National Academy of Social Insurance. These experts discussed both contributions made by older adults and challenges they face securing employment.
“The experience matters: older Americans bring valuable skills to our communities,” Scott said during his remarks at the hearing.
The Senate Aging Committee examines issues affecting older Americans such as Social Security, Medicare, long-term care and retirement security through hearings and reports according to its official website. The committee also provides resources aimed at protecting seniors from fraud and financial exploitation using tools like a dedicated fraud hotline according to its official website.
Scott serves as chair while Kirsten Gillibrand acts as ranking member on this committee according to its official website. Offices are maintained in both Dirksen (majority) and Hart (minority) Senate Office Buildings according to its official website. Oversight by this body extends nationwide across all federal aging-related programs including Medicare, Social Security and elder abuse prevention efforts through regular hearings and policy recommendations according to its official website.
Looking ahead, supporters say that removing financial penalties for working seniors could encourage greater participation among experienced workers.
