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HD 1091

An Act relative to accidental disability retirement for police officers and firefighters

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Jeff Turco

Bill modifies accidental disability retirement benefits for Massachusetts police officers and firefighters, adjusting eligibility or compensation for line-of-duty injuries.

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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HD 1091

Legislative bill overview

HD 1091 modifies the accidental disability retirement system for police officers and firefighters in Massachusetts, likely expanding eligibility criteria or benefits for those injured in the line of duty. The bill specifically addresses how accidental injuries are classified and compensated within the state's retirement system. This represents a targeted adjustment to existing disability retirement provisions that currently govern public safety personnel.

Why is this important

Accidental disability retirement provides critical income security for officers and firefighters whose injuries prevent them from continuing their careers. Massachusetts public safety personnel rely on these protections given the inherent workplace hazards of their jobs. Changes to eligibility or benefit levels directly affect both current recipients and future claimants, with broader implications for municipal pension costs and taxpayer obligations.

Potential points of contention

  • Fiscal impact: Expanding disability benefits or eligibility increases long-term pension liabilities for municipalities and the state, raising questions about funding mechanisms
  • Definition disputes: Disagreement over what constitutes "accidental" injury in performance of duty versus pre-existing conditions or off-duty incidents
  • Equity concerns: Questions about whether changes apply uniformly across different departments/municipalities or create disparities in benefits between similar workers

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

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