Massachusetts House Bill H3987

Massachusetts 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 7/13/23
• Refer: 7/13/23

Caption

Relative to retired fire fighters in the city of Newton

Impact

The bill impacts state laws by establishing specific provisions for retired firefighters, which include exemptions from certain chapters of the General Laws pertaining to special leave, vacation, and other benefits. Importantly, it mandates that retired firefighters pass a medical examination before their appointment and limits their operational duties to dispatching and fire details, ensuring that they do not perform fire suppression duties unless authorized. This legal framework promotes the employment of retired personnel in a supportive role while prioritizing public safety and operational integrity.

Summary

House Bill 3987, titled 'An Act Relative to Retired Fire Fighters in the City of Newton', allows the mayor of Newton to appoint retired firefighters to carry out fire detail and dispatch duties within the Emergency Communications Center. This initiative intends to utilize the experience of retired personnel while addressing potential staffing needs in the city's fire services. The bill is designed specifically for retired firefighters who retired based on superannuation and allows them to serve until the age of 75, removing the typical age restrictions found in existing laws.

Contention

Notable points of contention include the decision to waive the typical employment benefits and limitations typically conferred to city employees. Critics may argue that this bill could create disparities between active firefighters and retired firefighters performing similar duties, particularly regarding rights and benefits. Furthermore, allowing retired individuals to serve post-retirement raises questions about the long-term implications for workforce policies within the firefighting sector and the potential influence on hiring practices for new firefighters.