MA
Massachusetts House Bill H2571

Massachusetts 2023-2024 Regular Session

Massachusetts House Bill H2571

Introduced
2/16/23  
Refer
2/16/23  
Refer
5/22/23  
Engrossed
7/13/23  
Engrossed
12/28/23  
Enrolled
1/2/24  
Chaptered
1/8/24  

Caption

Exempting the position of police chief in the town of Lancaster from the provisions of the civil service law

Impact

If enacted, this bill would mean that the police chief position in Lancaster would no longer be subject to the requirements of Chapter 31 of the General Laws, which govern civil service positions. This change is anticipated to enable the town to make hiring decisions based on criteria more relevant to the specific needs of the community rather than conforming to a standardized civil service process. The bill specifically indicates that it will not affect the civil service status of the current police chief, ensuring that existing personnel retain their rights under the current law.

Summary

House Bill 2571 seeks to exempt the position of police chief in the town of Lancaster from the provisions set by the civil service law in Massachusetts. This legislative proposal is presented by Representatives Meghan Kilcoyne and John J. Cronin, and it has already received local approval. The primary objective of the bill is to allow the town to hire a police chief outside the strictures of the civil service hiring process, which could facilitate a more flexible approach to recruitment for this significant role in public safety.

Contention

Potential points of contention surrounding HB 2571 include concerns about transparency and accountability in hiring practices. Critics may argue that removing the civil service requirements could lead to favoritism or nepotism in the selection of police chiefs, undermining public trust in law enforcement. Proponents, however, may advocate for the necessity of local control and the ability to adapt leadership to the unique challenges faced by the town of Lancaster, positing that a flexible hiring process is essential for effective law enforcement leadership.

Companion Bills

MA H3731

Similar To Exempting all future members of the police department of the town of Great Barrington from the civil service law

MA H3877

Similar To Exempting town of Natick Police Superior Officers from the provisions of the civil service law

MA H3999

Similar To Exempting all positions in the fire department of the town of Needham from the civil service law

Previously Filed As

MA H4177

Exempting certain positions of the police department in the town of Lancaster from the civil service law

MA S2746

Exempting the position of police chief in the town of Barnstable from the civil service law

MA H4818

Increasing the membership of the Select Board for the Town of Lancaster

MA H3578

Validating the results of the annual town election held in the town of Lancaster

MA H4072

Exempting the positions of police chief and fire chief in the city of Greenfield from the civil service law

MA H5124

Authorizing the continued employment of Steven A. Hilliger, firefighter of the town of Lancaster

MA H2879

Authorizing the continued employment of Steven A. Hilliger, firefighter of the town of Lancaster

MA H2530

Exempting all positions in the police department of the town of Needham from the civil service law

MA S1722

Exempting all positions in the police department of the town of Carver from the civil service law

MA H2447

Exempting all positions in the police department of the town of Montague from the civil service law

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.