Bill > H2823

This bill provides special benefits to Joanne Songy, the surviving spouse of Detective John D. Songy, a police officer from the town of Rutland who died from COVID-19 complications. Specifically, the bill requires two retirement boards—the Worcester regional retirement board and the state board of retirement—to pay benefits to Mrs. Songy under sections 100 and 100A of chapter 32 of the General Laws, respectively. These benefits are to be paid notwithstanding any existing general or special laws that might otherwise prevent such payments. An important additional provision is that all payments made under this bill will be non-taxable to the extent allowed by state law. The bill is retroactive, with its effective date set as May 29, 2020, which suggests it is designed to provide posthumous support for a public safety officer who died during the early stages of the COVID-19 pandemic. By creating this specific legislative exception, the bill ensures that Detective Songy's spouse receives comprehensive financial support in recognition of his service and sacrifice.

Budget and Finance, Labor and Employment

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H2823