Massachusetts Senate Bill S1820

Massachusetts 2025-2026 Regular Session

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

Caption

Correcting pension inequity for James G. Clothier

Impact

If enacted, the bill will influence the regulatory framework governing the teachers' retirement system in Massachusetts. By permitting the purchase of additional service years, it intends to rectify a fairness issue that could affect not only Mr. Clothier but potentially set a precedent for similar cases in the future. Such legislative changes would need to consider the impact on the state's pension fund and the broader community of educators who might seek similar remedies.

Summary

Senate Bill 1820, titled 'An Act correcting pension inequity for James G. Clothier', seeks to address a specific pension inequity issue concerning James G. Clothier. The bill allows Mr. Clothier to purchase ten years of creditable service in the Massachusetts teachers' retirement system, specifically for his teaching service in New York State. This provision is significant as it grants Mr. Clothier the ability to enhance his retirement benefits based on prior service, which has implications for the calculation of his superannuation retirement allowance.

Contention

As the bill specifically addresses the circumstances of one individual, there may be discussions regarding equity and fairness in the treatment of other educators with similar situations. Stakeholders may raise questions about the precedent this could set for future pension corrections and whether it could lead to an influx of similar requests. Additionally, lawmakers may debate the fiscal implications of allowing service purchases, considering the strain on the pension system if multiple individuals were to utilize similar provisions.