Massachusetts House Bill H2549

Massachusetts 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/16/23
• Refer: 2/16/23

Caption

Relative to the amendment of M.G.L. c.32, section 4(2)(b) and 4(2)(c), solely as they relate to the calculation of Walter L. Guertin's pension

Impact

If enacted, HB 2549 would directly impact the pension calculation procedures under the existing Massachusetts law. It is proposed that the law would permit the pension of Walter Guertin to be calculated differently than current regulations stipulate. The bill specifies that the changes would apply retroactively from the date of his retirement, meaning that any unpaid pension amounts accrued between his retirement and the enactment of this bill would need to be paid by the retirement board. This could present financial repercussions for the Attleboro Retirement Board.

Summary

House Bill 2549 seeks to amend Massachusetts General Laws chapter 32, specifically sections 4(2)(b) and (c), to alter the pension calculation for Walter L. Guertin, who has been a member of the public service for 32 years. This bill aims to rectify the pension calculation process for Guertin, by allowing the Attleboro Retirement Board to consider his total years of creditable service up until his retirement date, which was November 17, 2017. The goal of the amendment is to ensure that Guertin receives fair compensation based on his years of service.

Contention

While the bill is relatively straightforward in its objective to support an individual retired public servant, it may raise questions regarding similar cases in the future where other retirees request changes in their pension calculations. Critics may argue that such specific amendments could set a precedent that complicates the pension system overall or potentially strain the resources of local retirement boards. Nevertheless, supporters are likely to advocate that fair compensation for long-serving officials like Guertin is critical for maintaining the integrity and appeal of public service roles.