Massachusetts Senate Bill S1921

Massachusetts 2025-2026 Regular Session

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

Caption

Relative to retirement equity for parenting teachers

Impact

The implications of S1921 include potentially increasing the retirement benefits for part-time educators, thereby encouraging more individuals to enter or remain in the teaching profession. This change may also promote a more equitable retirement system that acknowledges the varied paths teachers may take within their careers. Furthermore, by allowing part-time service to count towards retirement, the bill recognizes the valuable experience and service part-time educators provide to schools and communities.

Summary

Bill S1921, introduced in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, seeks to amend the General Laws regarding retirement credit for public school teachers. Specifically, the bill proposes that teachers who have worked part-time for at least 20 years may receive creditable service towards their retirement allowance upon returning to full-time teaching. This adjustment aims to recognize the contributions of part-time teachers, affording them equitable treatment in the retirement system compared to their full-time counterparts.

Contention

While discussions surrounding the bill have been largely supportive among educators and advocacy groups, there may be financial implications that raise contention. Critics might argue about the additional costs to the retirement system that could arise from granting these credits. Moreover, concerns could be raised regarding equal treatment across different professions and the potential precedent this bill sets for other state workers. Balancing fairness for part-time educators with the sustainability of the retirement system could be a focal point in ongoing legislative discussions.