Massachusetts House Bill H2279

Massachusetts 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/27/25
• Refer: 2/27/25

Caption

Relative to travel mileage rate fees for sheriffs, deputy sheriffs and constables

Impact

The proposed changes in HB 2279 are likely to have a significant impact on the operational costs of sheriffs and law enforcement already burdened by the requirements of executing legal proceedings. By defining and formalizing the mileage reimbursement process, the bill intends to reduce disparities in fees and promote fairness, ensuring that officers involved in such duties do not incur personal losses regarding travel expenses. Additionally, this could lead to a more consistent application of travel fees across jurisdictions, potentially improving efficiency in service delivery.

Summary

House Bill 2279 seeks to amend the travel mileage rate fees for sheriffs, deputy sheriffs, and constables in Massachusetts. This legislation introduces adjustments to various subsections of Chapter 262 of the General Laws, aiming to provide clarity on the reimbursement rates associated with travel undertaken in the execution of court-related processes. The bill outlines specific fees for transporting legal documents, such as original writs and subpoenas, and the mileage reimbursement structure, which is set at 65.5 cents per mile for travel related to court service, subject to distance limitations.

Contention

While the bill is largely technical in nature, there may be points of contention regarding the appropriateness of the reimbursement rates, especially in the context of fluctuating fuel prices and economic conditions. Stakeholders could express concerns over whether the proposed mileage rate adequately reflects the current costs incurred by law enforcement officers or if adjustments are needed to ensure fair compensation. Furthermore, discussions may arise on whether the State adequately reviews these rates on a regular basis to keep them in line with inflation and market rates.