MA
Massachusetts House Bill H2679

Massachusetts 2023-2024 Regular Session

Massachusetts House Bill H2679

Introduced
2/16/23  
Refer
2/16/23  
Refer
11/22/23  
Engrossed
1/25/24  
Engrossed
5/16/24  
Enrolled
5/20/24  
Chaptered
5/30/24  

Caption

Exempting the Deputy Police Chief of the town of Wrentham from the civil service law

Impact

The bill aims to impact local law enforcement practices significantly by allowing the town of Wrentham the autonomy to appoint its Deputy Police Chief without adhering to civil service regulations. This change could potentially accelerate the hiring process and enable the town to respond more swiftly to community needs regarding law enforcement leadership. Moreover, this exemption might set a precedent for similar requests from other towns looking to adapt their local governance structures to better reflect their unique circumstances.

Summary

House Bill 2679 proposes an exemption for the position of Deputy Police Chief in the town of Wrentham from Massachusetts' civil service law. This legislation is being presented with the intention of allowing for more localized control over the hiring and management of law enforcement personnel. By exempting this specific position from the civil service regulations, the town seeks to enhance its flexibility in appointing and managing its deputy police chief, thus tailoring the role to better fit local needs and priorities.

Contention

Despite its intentions, the bill may bring forth a range of discussions regarding the principles of civil service and the protections it offers. Opponents of the exemption could argue that removing this position from civil service oversight raises concerns about transparency and accountability in the hiring process for law enforcement. The civil service laws were designed to ensure that public employment decisions are made fairly, promoting merit-based hiring and protecting against political interference. As such, the bill could face scrutiny about its implications for governance and community trust in law enforcement agencies.

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 H3878

Similar To Exempting town of Natick Police Patrol Officers from the provisions of 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 H2678

Exempting the police chief of the town of Wrentham from the civil service law

MA H3720

Authorizing the town of Wrentham to exempt the position of Deputy Fire Chief from civil service

MA H4269

Authorizing the town of Wrentham to exempt from taxation certain real estate owned and occupied by the surviving spouse of Wrentham Deputy Chief George C. Labonte

MA H4059

To authorize the Wrentham Board of Selectmen to remove certain positions of the town of Wrentham Fire Department from the requirements of M.G.L. Ch. 31

MA H4268

To authorize the Wrentham Select Board to remove the position of lieutenant of the town of Wrentham Police Department from the requirements of M.G.L. Ch. 31

MA H4179

Exempting the position of deputy fire chief of the town of Chelmsford from the civil service law

MA H4590

Exempting the office of chief of police and the position of deputy chief of police in the city of Worcester from the civil service law

MA S2924

Exempting the position of Deputy Police Chief in the city of Amesbury from the civil service law

MA H4651

Exempting the office of chief of police in the town of Leicester from the civil service law

MA S2746

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

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.