Recategorizing DMH, DPH, and DDS police
The enactment of HB 2947 could significantly impact the retirement and benefit structures for officers serving in mental health and developmental services contexts. By formally recognizing these officers as part of the broader public safety community, the bill aims to ensure equitable treatment regarding retirement benefits, which may previously have been less favorable compared to their counterparts in typical law enforcement roles.
House Bill 2947, introduced by Representative David Allen Robertson, aims to recategorize the police officers and public safety officials from the Department of Mental Health (DMH), Department of Public Health (DPH), and Department of Developmental Services (DDS). The legislation proposes amendments to Section 3 of Chapter 32 of the General Laws to include these officers under the definition of public safety personnel. This inclusion would align their retirement provisions with those applicable to other public safety officials, potentially providing enhanced benefits.
While the primary intent of HB 2947 is to support public safety officers working within mental and developmental health frameworks, there may be concerns regarding the financial implications of extending additional benefits. Some legislators or advocates might argue that the bill could strain state resources due to increased pension-related expenses. Furthermore, questions about the appropriate categorization of these officers might arise, particularly regarding their scope of work and the nature of risks they face compared to traditional law enforcement personnel.