Bill > S2045

This bill clarifies and expands the authority and retirement provisions for University of Massachusetts (UMass) police officers. It amends existing laws to explicitly include UMass police officers under definitions of "police officer" and grants them powers similar to other police officers, including the ability to enforce state laws on and near university property. The bill also establishes a retirement incentive for current UMass police officers appointed under a specific section of law, allowing them to retire within twelve months of the bill's enactment with a combined credit of up to three years for age and service. Additionally, it ensures that incumbent UMass police officers will continue in their roles without loss of retirement, seniority, or other rights, and makes adjustments to how certain UMass police positions are classified for retirement purposes, specifically including chiefs and police officers of the entire UMass system in a higher retirement group.