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SD 524

An Act relative to Veteran annuities for surviving spouses

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Paul McMurtry and 1 co-sponsor

Massachusetts bill modifying state annuity benefits and eligibility for surviving spouses of veterans to adjust support or program structure.

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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · SD 524

Legislative bill overview

SD 524 proposes to modify Massachusetts' veteran annuity provisions for surviving spouses. The bill adjusts benefits or eligibility criteria for spouses of deceased veterans receiving state annuities. Specific provisions would need to be reviewed in the bill text to clarify exact changes to benefit amounts, eligibility periods, or survivor classifications.

Why is this important

Surviving spouses of veterans often depend on these annuities as a primary income source, making changes to this program directly affect financial security for thousands of Massachusetts families. Adjustments to veteran benefits can either expand support for surviving families or potentially restrict access, creating meaningful impacts on vulnerable populations. Alignment with federal veteran benefits and other state programs affects both individual families and state budget allocations.

Potential points of contention

  • Scope of eligibility changes – Whether modifications expand or restrict who qualifies as a surviving spouse (e.g., remarriage provisions, marriage length requirements)
  • Benefit amount adjustments – Whether annuity payments increase, decrease, or adjust based on cost-of-living or other factors
  • Fiscal impact – State budget implications, whether the bill requires new appropriations or reallocates existing veteran benefit funds

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

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