Bill > S1325

This bill, declared an emergency law for the immediate preservation of public safety, makes several changes concerning the University of Massachusetts (UMass) police department. It clarifies that the terms "police officer," "policeman," or "permanent member of a police force" include any police officer appointed by UMass. The bill also grants UMass trustees the authority to establish rules for vehicle control and parking on university property and contiguous roadways, with appointed university employees having police powers for enforcing these rules, except for serving civil process; importantly, all fines collected from violations of these rules will be sent to UMass for scholarship funds. Furthermore, it ensures that current UMass police officers appointed under a specific section of law will continue their service without loss of rights, seniority, or compensation, and it extends certain legal provisions and retirement benefits to UMass police officers, including those related to injuries sustained in the line of duty and retirement incentives. The bill also expands the definition of "police officer" in certain contexts to include UMass police officers and clarifies their authority to enforce Commonwealth laws on properties owned, occupied, or affiliated with the university, as well as in bordering cities and towns.