As a lifelong conservative, I believe in fiscal responsibility, rewarding work, and keeping government out of the way of common-sense solutions. That’s why, after Washington has been shut down and so divided, Congress has an opportunity to come together on a reform that strengthens businesses, supports workers, and raises revenue without raising taxes.

Across the country, billions of dollars sit idle in retiree health plan accounts — money that responsible companies contributed years ago to cover the health needs of our retirees. Many of these accounts are now “overfunded,” meaning they have far more than they’ll ever need to pay retiree benefits. But under outdated federal rules, employers can’t use that surplus for anything else — not even to help cover benefits for active employees who are working hard today.

That’s not fiscal discipline. That’s government inefficiency.

But there is good news – a practical, conservative fix is on the table.

The Strengthening Benefit Plans Act of 2025 would allow companies to use these surplus retiree health plan assets — under strong safeguards — to fund other employee benefits, like active employee health coverage. It’s simple, responsible, and pro-growth. Following the shutdown, it’s the kind of solution Washington should be talking about: one that helps workers, supports employers, and actually raises federal revenue.

Here’s how. Because these retiree health plan assets were already deducted years ago, employers that use them for current employee benefits would forgo a new deduction. That means more revenue for the Treasury — without raising taxes or increasing government spending. It’s a conservative way to strengthen America’s workforce and improve fiscal health at the same time.

The proposal also contains strong safeguards to ensure accountability and protection for workers. Companies couldn’t manipulate the system by cutting retiree benefits or adding new contributions to inflate surpluses. Pension plans would have to be fully funded before any transfers, and employee benefits would immediately vest. All funds would remain in trust, used only for legitimate employee benefits, ensuring transparency and fiscal integrity. These funds could also be used to lower health insurance premiums for their employees at a time when Americans are correctly upset about the surge in health care costs. This proposal offers relief while protecting retirement security.

In short, this reform rewards responsible companies, protects retirees, and promotes the efficient use of private-sector resources — without costing taxpayers a dime. It’s an opportunity for Congress to show leadership and deliver results, proving that conservative solutions can cut red tape and improve economic outcomes.

Republicans have long stood for fiscal responsibility, efficient government, and empowering employers to take care of their workers. Allowing the use of overfunded retiree health plan assets for current employee benefits fits squarely within those principles. It strengthens businesses, supports employees, and raises revenue — all while reducing waste and bureaucracy.

At a time when Washington is struggling to find common ground, this is a practical step Republicans can take to show that conservative governance still works. Let’s not let billions of dollars sit idle while workers and businesses could benefit. Congress can — and should — act on this commonsense, pro-growth reform.

Roger F. Villere, Jr. is Louisiana’s Republican National Committeeman