Massachusetts House Bill H2470

Massachusetts 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/16/23
• Refer: 2/16/23

Caption

Designating certain employees of the Massachusetts Department of Transportation to be in Group 2 of the contributory retirement system

Impact

The proposed measure has significant implications for state laws related to public employee retirement systems. By including MassDOT workers in Group 2, the bill would provide them with access to enhanced retirement benefits, reflecting the demanding nature of their work. This change is anticipated to have budgetary effects on the state retirement system, as it could increase the financial obligations for pension funding. The classification change supports the idea that certain jobs entail greater risk and responsibility and thus warrant better compensation in terms of retirement benefits.

Summary

House Bill 2470 is proposed legislation aimed at designating specific employees of the Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT) as members of Group 2 in the contributory retirement system. The bill seeks to amend Section 3 of Chapter 32 of the General Laws by adding Highway and Street Construction and Maintenance Workers within the scope of those eligible for the enhanced benefits associated with Group 2, which typically includes individuals in more hazardous occupations. The addition of these workers to the Group 2 classification is intended to better align their retirement benefits with the nature of their jobs.

Contention

While the bill presents a move towards equity for workers in physically demanding roles, it may also lead to debates regarding funding and budget allocation for public employee pensions. Opponents may express concerns over the sustainability of expanding benefits for additional employee groups, particularly in the context of existing budget constraints. There is potential for contention surrounding the prioritization of pension fund allocations, especially as state lawmakers evaluate long-term financial impacts against the backdrop of competing legislative priorities.