Bill > H2891

This bill modifies existing Massachusetts law to provide comprehensive pension benefits for surviving spouses and children of public safety officers (firefighters, police officers, and corrections officers) who are killed in the line of duty. Under the new provisions, if a public safety officer dies as a result of injuries sustained while performing their official duties—such as during an emergency response, an assault, or an accident involving a department vehicle—their surviving spouse will receive an annual pension equal to the salary the officer would have earned had they continued serving. If the surviving spouse dies, each child (until age 18 or age 22 if a full-time student) will receive a pension that includes $312 annually plus 72% of the spouse's previous pension amount. In cases where no surviving spouse exists, the children will receive a pension equivalent to the officer's potential salary. The bill specifies that these benefits are paid through the appropriate retirement system and can be administered by the state board of retirement, local retirement boards, or town selectmen. The legislation also includes specific provisions for firefighters from various departments, including the Massachusetts military reservation, 104th fighter wing, and Devens fire department, ensuring they are covered under these pension benefits.

Labor and Employment

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H2891