MP Blaney introduces Bill to eliminate ‘golddigger clause’ for veterans

MP Rachel Blaney, NDP critic for Veterans Affairs, has tabled private Member’s bill C-221 to eliminate the century old ‘marriage after 60’ clause, also known as the ‘golddiger clause’ that made spouses who married veterans of the Canadian Armed Forces and the RCMP after the age of 60 ineligible to receive survivor pensions.

In her introductory statement Blaney said the bill would ensure veterans “who find love when they are older will know that their spouse will be taken care of just like any other married couple.”

The Liberals have promised to eliminate the clause since 2015. Instead, Budget 2019 created the Veterans Survivors Fund which has yet to benefit a single veteran or their survivors.

The Armed Forces Pensioner’/Annuitants’ Association of Canada (AFP/AAC), the National Council of Veterans Associations, and the Royal Canadian Legion have called for the removal of the clause.

A 50% clawback on their current pension payout was made available to veterans who marry after the age of 60 to provide for their spouse after their death. Often, the clawback has meant the veteran and their spouse must live on only $1000/month.

“Veterans are going without today to put a little aside for their spouse after they are gone. This ridiculous clause is pushing our veterans into poverty.” -MP Rachel Blaney

Blaney has spoken on the issue in the Standing Committee on Veterans Affairs, in Question Period, and recently introduced a petition in the House calling for an end to the clause.

“Veterans who find love in their later years should not be punished for it, nor should their partners, the majority of whom are women. It’s sexist and archaic and must be eliminated.” -MP Rachel Blaney