Massachusetts Senate Bill S1753

Massachusetts 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/16/23
• Refer: 2/16/23
• Refer: 3/7/24

Caption

Relative to the veteran allowance for public retirees

Impact

The passage of S1753 would significantly modify existing laws under chapter 32 of the General Laws, thereby establishing a clearer framework for additional retirement allowances catered to veterans. It aims to address disparities in veteran benefits, providing a structured way for local retirement systems to adopt these provisions by requiring a majority vote from their governing boards. If enacted, this amendment will ensure that veterans receive more adequate financial recognition for their service in public sectors, aligning benefits more closely with their contributions.

Summary

Bill S1753, known as 'An Act relative to the veteran allowance for public retirees,' proposes amendments to the provisions governing retirement allowances for veterans within public retirement systems in Massachusetts. Specifically, the bill introduces an additional yearly allowance of fifty dollars for each year of creditable service, capping the total additional financial support to one thousand dollars. This adjustment aims to acknowledge and enhance the financial support for veterans who have served in public roles and encourages retirement systems to incorporate these changes through respective approvals.

Contention

While S1753 presents a progressive step toward supporting veterans, it could lead to discussions concerning budget impacts on local retirement systems. Stakeholders may argue about the sustainability of funding these additional benefits and the administrative processes required for implementation. Opponents might raise concerns about the financial strain this may place on smaller municipalities with limited budgets for public service retirements. Moreover, the bill's requirement for a majority vote among retirement system boards before accepting the new provisions may also create variability in how these benefits are ultimately distributed across the state.