Massachusetts Senate Bill S1697

Massachusetts 2023-2024 Regular Session

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

Caption

Relative to the active service buy-back program for firefighters and police officers

Impact

Should this bill be enacted, it would directly modify Chapter 32 of the General Laws, which pertains to public retirement systems in Massachusetts. The amendment could potentially increase the workload for public retirement systems as they manage and process more buy-back applications from veterans who seek to add their military service to their retirement calculations. This change is particularly aimed at enhancing the financial security of veterans who serve in emergency response roles, encouraging a stronger workforce within public safety sectors.

Summary

Senate Bill S1697, introduced by Jason M. Lewis, seeks to amend the existing law regarding the active service buy-back program specifically for firefighters and police officers in Massachusetts. The proposed legislation allows veterans with creditable service as a firefighter or police officer to purchase creditable service for their active duty in the armed forces at the same rate that firefighters and police officers currently enjoy. This adjustment aims to offer uniformity and equality in benefits between firefighters, police officers, and veterans of the armed forces regarding service credit purchasing options.

Contention

While the proposed bill has significant support from public service advocates and unions representing firefighters and police officers, there could be contention related to the financial implications for the retirement systems involved. Concerns may arise about the sustainability of funding if a large number of veterans take up the option to buy back their service credits. The fiscal responsibility of such changes is expected to be a focal point during discussions, as stakeholders weigh the benefits to the workforce against the costs involved in implementing the proposed changes.