Massachusetts 2025-2026 Regular Session

Massachusetts House Bill H45

Introduced
2/27/25  

Caption

Updating judicial retirement benefits

Impact

The passage of H45 is expected to significantly influence state education laws by formally authorizing tuition assistance programs and creating guidelines for their implementation. This bill would enable the allocation of state funds to support students, thereby potentially increasing the overall graduation rate. Additionally, it may prompt educational institutions to review their financial aid policies to better align with the state's objectives. Stakeholders, including school districts and universities, will be tasked with developing and managing the programs in accordance with state regulations.

Summary

House Bill H45 aims to address the financial challenges faced by students pursuing higher education by introducing a framework for state-funded tuition assistance. The bill emphasizes providing support for both traditional and non-traditional students, particularly those from low-income backgrounds, to ensure equitable access to educational opportunities. By establishing a state-level tuition assistance program, the bill seeks to alleviate the burden of student loans and promote increased enrollment in higher education institutions.

Sentiment

Sentiment around H45 appears to be generally supportive among educators and advocacy groups pushing for increased education funding. Many proponents believe that this initiative will provide much-needed relief for students and facilitate better access to higher education, particularly for underrepresented groups. Conversely, critics have expressed concerns about the potential financial implications of funding such programs, questioning whether the state can sustainably support additional financial aid without compromising other essential services.

Contention

Notable contention centers around the source of funding for these programs, with discussions focusing on whether the financial support for tuition assistance should come from budget reallocations or increased taxes. Additionally, there are debates regarding eligibility criteria, as some argue that certain income thresholds may exclude deserving candidates. Furthermore, there are differing opinions on the potential long-term impact of H45 on the state's higher education landscape, with some fearing it may lead to dependency on state funding rather than encouraging institutions to seek alternative revenue sources.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

MA H2598

Relative to updating judicial retirement benefits

MA S16

PERAC Regulations Governing Retirement of Public Employees

MA H2603

Further regulating the retirement benefits of certain public safety employees

MA H3891

Relative to the retirement benefits of Officer Brian Murphy of the Massachusetts State Police

MA H2668

Relative to the retirement benefits of certain public safety employees

MA H4247

Relative to retirement survivor benefits for Katherine M. McGuinness

MA H8

Legislative recommendations of the Public Employee Retirement Administration Commission

MA H2551

Relative to the retirement benefits of Howard S. Levine

MA S2540

Proposed amendments to the rules and regulations governing retirement of public employees

MA S2769

Providing for certain retirement benefits for the surviving beneficiary of Brandon Arakelian

Similar Bills

ME LD137

An Act to Expand the 1998 Special Retirement Plan to Include Employees Who Work for the Office of Chief Medical Examiner

ME LD794

An Act to Include Judicial Marshals in the 1998 Special Plan for Retirement

ME LD610

An Act to Expand the 1998 Special Retirement Plan to Include Employees Who Work for the Office of Chief Medical Examiner

ME LD1761

An Act to Include Certain Mental Health Workers Under the 1998 Special Plan for Retirement

ME LD579

An Act to Include Certain Mental Health Workers Under the 1998 Special Plan for Retirement

ME LD1760

An Act to Include Certain Crisis Outreach and Crisis Services Workers Under the 1998 Special Plan for Retirement

IA HF182

A bill for an act relating to controlled substances, including certain controlled substances schedules and precursor substances reporting requirements, making penalties applicable, and including effective date provisions. (Formerly HSB 25.) Effective date: 03/28/2025.

IA SF305

A bill for an act relating to controlled substances, including certain controlled substances schedules and precursor substances reporting requirements, making penalties applicable, and including effective date provisions.(Formerly SSB 1080.)