Bill > H2195

This bill proposes to merge the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) police department into the Department of State Police, creating a consolidated police force for the Commonwealth. The merger, which begins on August 1, 2015, with a six-month transition period, aims to enhance homeland security by consolidating law enforcement responsibilities. The agreement for this merger will outline legal and fiscal responsibilities, including payments from the MBTA to cover costs related to retirement, injured officers, sick leave, and other employee benefits, as well as a minimum allowance for departmental supervision. Importantly, the bill mandates the continuation of all terms and conditions of employment established under existing collective bargaining agreements, ensuring that the rights of officers are protected. The MBTA will be responsible for 50% of the expenses incurred by the Department of State Police in providing these services. The bill also addresses the retirement systems for MBTA police officers, ensuring that current members are entered into the public employee retirement system with their service years credited, while retired members will remain in their existing funds. Furthermore, it establishes a training program for transferred officers and outlines procedures for those who do not wish to transfer, including placement on civil service eligibility lists. A committee will be formed to study the rank structure of the merged department, and all existing contracts and obligations of the MBTA police department will transfer to the Department of State Police. Finally, the bill clarifies that city and town police officers will have concurrent jurisdiction with state police on MBTA property within their geographical boundaries.