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Bill

S 1915

An Act clarifying call firefighter rights

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Kelly Pease and 1 co-sponsor

Massachusetts bill clarifies employment rights and protections for call firefighters to strengthen legal standing and workplace fairness.

Bills in the Third Reading report accepted, see S2960
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Bill Summary · S 1915

Legislative bill overview

S 1915 clarifies and strengthens the legal rights and protections for call firefighters in Massachusetts, a volunteer or part-time workforce that comprises a significant portion of the state's firefighting capacity. The bill addresses gaps in existing labor and employment protections that apply to permanent firefighters but have been ambiguous for call firefighters.

Why is this important

Call firefighters are essential to fire protection in many Massachusetts communities, particularly in rural and suburban areas, yet they often lack the same workplace protections and legal clarity as full-time firefighters. Clarifying their rights could affect recruitment, retention, fair compensation practices, and legal liability for municipalities and fire departments that employ them.

Potential points of contention

  • Cost implications – Expanding protections and rights for call firefighters may increase municipal costs for training, benefits, or liability insurance, potentially affecting local budgets or property tax considerations
  • Definition and scope – Disagreement may exist over which benefits, protections, or compensation structures should apply to call versus full-time firefighters, and how to distinguish between the two categories fairly
  • Implementation complexity – Municipalities and fire departments may face administrative and compliance burdens if the bill creates new reporting requirements, dispute resolution processes, or mandatory provisions

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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