Bill > H4079

This bill modifies regulations for public retirees' post-retirement employment, primarily focusing on earnings and hours worked for retired individuals. The legislation increases the hourly cap for retired public employees from 1,200 to 1,320 hours per year and introduces specific provisions for out-of-state retired individuals employed by Massachusetts public entities. For out-of-state retirees, the bill establishes that their earnings cannot exceed 50% of the annual salary for their position, and they cannot work more than 900 hours in a calendar year. Public employers must report the employment details of these out-of-state retirees to the Public Employee Retirement Administration Commission within 30 days of hiring. The commission is tasked with monitoring compliance, developing an online tool to help calculate earnings limits, and launching a public awareness campaign. Employers who fail to comply with reporting requirements may face administrative fines up to $5,000, and out-of-state retirees who exceed earnings limits must return excess earnings and pay a 25% penalty. The bill also encourages public entities to prioritize hiring Massachusetts retirees and provides potential state funding incentives for doing so. These changes will take effect on January 1, 2026.

Labor and Employment

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H4079