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Bill

HD 1549

An Act relative to teacher’s retirement buyback for former parochial school teachers

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by James Arena-DeRosa and 16 co-sponsors

Allows former parochial school teachers to purchase service credit toward Massachusetts public teacher pensions, expanding retirement benefits for cross-sector educators at uncertain cost to state funds.

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Bill Summary · HD 1549

Legislative bill overview

HD 1549 would allow former parochial school teachers to buy back their years of service in Massachusetts' public teacher retirement system, even though they previously worked at private religious schools. This legislation creates a pathway for these teachers to receive credit toward public pension benefits for time spent teaching at parochial institutions.

Why is this important

Many teachers transition between parochial and public school systems during their careers, but currently cannot count parochial service years toward their public pension. This bill could significantly increase retirement security for affected educators and may help recruitment/retention in parochial schools by making career transitions less financially penalizing. The cost to the state pension system and the mechanics of funding this buyback are central practical concerns.

Potential points of contention

  • Cost to public pension system: Allowing service buybacks increases unfunded liabilities in Massachusetts' already-strained teacher pension fund, raising questions about fiscal sustainability and whether taxpayers should subsidize private school service time.
  • Equity across sectors: Creates differential treatment—public school teachers cannot similarly buy back time in other sectors. Questions arise about why parochial service specifically qualifies versus other employment gaps.
  • Religious institution support: Some may view state pension credits for parochial school service as indirect public funding of religious education, raising church-state separation concerns.

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

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