This episode of The FED Weekly covers the week of March 8-14, 2026, spotlighting critical updates for federal employees and retirees. Key topics include a major data breach involving the Social Security Administration, raising alarms about personal data security, and the risk of identity theft. Lawrence reviews new Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) performance data, highlighting strong gains for international funds. There’s concern that cost-of-living adjustments will be offset by significant Medicare premium hikes, thereby minimizing retirees’ real income gains. Important legislation is discussed, such as the FAIR Act, which proposes a 4.1% pay raise, and the True Shutdown Fairness Act, which aims to protect federal workers during government shutdowns. The episode also explores administrative delays, underrepresentation of women in benefits, and changes to federal employment protections—including the controversial Schedule PC, which weakens job security and due process for many federal workers. Legal victories for employees at the Social Security Administration and the Department of Veterans Affairs are noted, while other agencies face layoffs and operational challenges. The episode wraps with guidance for retirees on Social Security earnings limits and the ongoing battle to keep retirement benefits aligned with inflation.

• (00:00) - Welcome and Week Ahead