Commenter warns of scams tied to Social Security Fairness Act

Chris Bianez, identified in the record as a commenter, warned that fraudsters are likely to exploit the recently enacted Social Security Fairness Act and urged people not to share personal information.

Bianez said the Social Security Fairness Act (H.R. 82) was signed into law Jan. 5, 2025, and "eliminates the reduction of Social Security benefits while entitled to public pensions from work not covered by social security." He cautioned residents that scammers "will try to contact you pretending to be the Social Security Administration" and may ask for Social Security numbers to enroll people in benefits.

Why it matters: the law is federal and affects how some public pensions interact with Social Security benefits; Bianez’s warning focuses on the immediate risk that scammers will use the change as leverage to obtain personal data. He emphasized an agency practice and reporting route: "Remember, the Social Security Administration will never call you to verify your Social Security number. If you receive such a call, it's a scam. Protect yourself. Hang up immediately." The commenter also advised, "Don't share personal information, and report suspicious calls to the Office of the Inspector General."

The remarks were delivered as a brief public comment; no formal action or official guidance from the Social Security Administration was announced at the meeting. The record does not specify which populations in the city are already affected by the law or whether local agencies will provide follow-up information. Bianez signed off by thanking listeners.

Bianez’s statements combine a summary of the federal law with personal advice about fraud prevention. The meeting transcript records his description of the law and his direct warnings about unsolicited calls and information requests. No city action, enforcement measure or staff directive relating to the law or to anti-fraud outreach was recorded in the meeting notes.