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S 1894

An Act providing disability compensation for qualified correctional officers

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

Massachusetts bill establishes disability compensation program for correctional officers injured or disabled in job-related incidents, providing financial and medical benefits.

Accompanied a study order, see S3020
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Bill Summary · S 1894

Legislative bill overview

S 1894 would establish a disability compensation program for qualified correctional officers in Massachusetts, providing benefits to officers who suffer work-related disabilities. The bill creates a mechanism for eligible corrections staff to receive compensation when injuries or conditions are deemed service-connected.

Why is this important

Correctional officers face elevated occupational hazards including physical assault, mental health impacts from job stress, and exposure to dangerous substances. This program would provide financial security and medical support to officers injured in the line of duty, similar to benefits available to police and firefighters in many states, potentially reducing barriers to recruitment and retention in an already strained sector.

Potential points of contention

  • Cost and budget impact: The fiscal burden of establishing and maintaining disability benefits for all qualified correctional officers statewide is not yet specified, raising questions about program sustainability and funding sources
  • Definition of "qualified" and eligibility: The criteria determining which officers qualify and what conditions are service-connected could be contentious, particularly regarding mental health conditions, occupational diseases, or injuries from incidents years prior
  • Parity with other public safety workers: Determining whether correctional officers should receive identical, greater, or lesser benefits than police or firefighters may generate debate about occupational risk comparisons

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

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