Massachusetts Senate Bill S2691

Massachusetts 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/26/24
• Engrossed: 2/26/24
• Refer: 2/26/24
• Report Pass: 3/6/24
• Refer: 3/6/24
• Engrossed: 3/6/24
• Enrolled: 3/18/24
• Chaptered: 3/27/24
• Passed: 3/27/24

Caption

Authorizing the continued employment of Jerry Shampang as an environmental police officer in the executive office of energy and environmental affairs

Impact

The bill appears to primarily impact state laws concerning retirement and public employment. By allowing Shampang to continue in his role beyond the typical retirement age, it sets a precedent for similar situations involving police officers or public employees who may need the opportunity to work for an extended period due to skills or specific roles that are of benefit to state services. Furthermore, it may influence perceptions regarding age limits in public service roles, particularly in safety or law enforcement positions where experience and continuity can be significant.

Summary

Senate Bill S2691 aims to authorize the continued employment of Jerry Shampang as an environmental police officer in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts's executive office of energy and environmental affairs. According to the provisions of this bill, Shampang may serve in his position until he reaches the age of 70, or until he either retires or is not reappointed. The bill notably ensures that no additional deductions will be made from Shampang's salary under Chapter 32 of the General Laws upon him reaching the age of 65. Upon retirement, he will receive a retirement allowance equivalent to what he would have earned had he retired at 65.

Contention

One potential point of contention relating to S2691 could emerge from discussions about age discrimination and employment rights. While the bill supports an individual by allowing extended employment, concerns may arise regarding whether similar opportunities would be offered to other employees in similar roles. Opponents might argue that this bill creates a special privilege for Shampang, potentially undermining equality and fairness in how age-related employment policies are enforced across the state's workforce.