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Aside from the potential pause on new hires, union-represented county employees could go without a cost-of-living adjustment.

Mr. Bogart cited a hefty cost-of-living adjustment in Social Security benefits amid high inflation, and his fears that Republicans could roll back the program.

At one point, Sperling stressed to the automakers the UAW’s position that new contracts needed a built-in cost-of-living adjustment, so that wages could be adjusted for inflation.

The cost-of-living adjustment means the average Social Security recipient will receive at least $50 more every month.

The law requires an annual cost-of-living adjustment for benefits, based on rising prices.