Massachusetts Senate Bill S1684

Massachusetts 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/16/23
• Refer: 2/16/23
• Refer: 10/12/23

Caption

Relative to retirement buy back into the Massachusetts State Retirement system for Sherrie Stevens

Impact

The enactment of S1684 would have a specific impact on the eligibility criteria for retirement benefits within the Massachusetts State Retirement System. By allowing Sherrie Stevens to buy back her service time, it sets a precedent for other public employees who might seek similar adjustments. Additionally, the funding mechanism described in the bill would ensure that Ms. Stevens compensates the retirement board appropriately, thus aligning her retirement benefits with the contributions she would have made had she been an active member during the specified period.

Summary

Bill S1684, introduced by Senator Anne M. Gobi, aims to allow Sherrie Stevens to credit her previous service at the Devereux School towards her retirement benefits within the Massachusetts State Retirement System. Specifically, the bill permits the state retirement board to recognize service rendered from April 1986 through September 2000 as credible service for the purpose of calculating her retirement allowance. This legislative proposal is intended to clarify and facilitate the retirement process for Ms. Stevens, providing her the opportunity to make contributions retroactively to receive the associated benefits.

Contention

While the bill appears straightforward, it raises potential questions about equity and precedent-setting for other public employees seeking to add past service time to their retirement credits. Discussions may arise regarding the implications of allowing buy-backs of service time, especially if similar cases are presented in the future. Opponents could argue that such measures may create financial burdens on the retirement system or offer favoritism to selected employees, while supporters would counter by advocating for the rights of government workers to have their entire career service recognized.