Massachusetts Senate Bill S1677

Massachusetts 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/16/23
• Refer: 2/16/23
• Report Pass: 10/5/23
• Engrossed: 11/13/23
• Refer: 11/15/23

Caption

Relative to the amendment of M.G.L. c.32, section 4(2)(b) and 4(2)(c), solely as they relate to the calculation of Walter L. Guertin's pension

Impact

The bill specifically addresses a singular case but sets a precedent for how pension calculations could be managed for similar individuals in the future. By instituting a targeted amendment, the bill aims to ensure that Walter Guertin receives any entitled payments that he has not yet received since his retirement, thus directly impacting his retirement finances. The bill highlights the need for clarity and potential reassessment of pension rights related to credited service years and retirement dates.

Summary

Senate Bill S1677 proposes an amendment to the Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 32, specifically altering sections 4(2)(b) and 4(2)(c). This legislation is designed to adjust the pension calculation for Walter L. Guertin, a retiree with thirty-two years of credited service. The amendments will ensure that his retirement allowance is based on the length of service recognized by the Attleboro Retirement Board as of his retirement date, November 17, 2017.

Contention

While the bill is focused on resolving a seemingly individual matter, there may be implications for other retired employees or those awaiting similar pension recalculations. Given that this bill modifies existing legal provisions, it could be open to scrutiny regarding fairness and the broader implications for other retirees who might find themselves in similar situations. Questions may arise about whether similar amendments could be pursued for others in the future, potentially leading to debates about equitable treatment under pension laws.