Bill > S1865

This bill provides a special retirement benefit for Kristen Arakelian, the surviving beneficiary of Brandon Arakelian, a former State Police Sergeant who died by suicide on June 4, 2021. Despite existing retirement laws that might typically prevent such a benefit, the bill directs the state board of retirement to provide Kristen with a lifetime monthly allowance equal to what she would have received if Brandon had been awarded an accidental disability retirement based on his post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The allowance will be calculated from the date of Brandon's retirement (June 4, 2021), with any amounts previously paid through his superannuation pension being deducted from the new benefit. This legislation represents a compassionate exception to standard retirement rules, acknowledging the potential link between Brandon's service-related PTSD and his tragic death, and ensuring financial support for his surviving beneficiary. The bill would take effect immediately upon its passage.

Budget and Finance, Labor and Employment

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/S1865