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SD 1256

An Act relative to injured correctional officers

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Ed Kennedy

SD 1256 expands workers' compensation benefits and support services for Massachusetts correctional officers injured during job duties.

House concurred
0
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Bill Summary · SD 1256

Legislative bill overview

SD 1256 provides additional benefits and protections for correctional officers injured in the line of duty in Massachusetts. The bill expands workers' compensation coverage and establishes new support mechanisms for officers experiencing work-related injuries while incarcerated in state facilities.

Why is this important

Correctional officers face significant occupational hazards including violence, exposure to hazardous materials, and psychological trauma. Enhanced injury protections affect both officer welfare and the state's ability to recruit and retain qualified correctional staff, which has direct implications for prison safety and operations.

Potential points of contention

  • Fiscal impact: Expansion of workers' compensation benefits increases state liability and budget obligations, potentially requiring new appropriations or reallocation of existing criminal justice funding
  • Scope of coverage: Defining what qualifies as "line of duty" injury and which psychological conditions are compensable could create disputes and administrative complexity
  • Implementation costs: New support mechanisms (counseling, rehabilitation services, disability benefits) require infrastructure and staffing that may strain resources, particularly in smaller facilities

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

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