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HD 2547

An Act relative to veteran buy backs

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Paul McMurtry

Massachusetts bill allowing veterans in public employment to purchase military service time as pension credit, increasing retirement benefits or eligibility speed.

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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HD 2547

Legislative bill overview

HD 2547 allows veterans to "buy back" military service time to count toward their Massachusetts public employee pension benefits. This means veterans employed in state or municipal government positions can purchase credit for their prior military service, reducing the time needed to become eligible for pension benefits or increasing their benefit amounts based on total credited service.

Why is this important

Many veterans transition to public sector employment after military service, and this bill directly affects their long-term financial security by potentially increasing retirement benefits or accelerating eligibility. The policy recognizes military service as equivalent to public employment for pension purposes, which can be meaningful given the lower salaries typical in public sector work compared to private industry alternatives.

Potential points of contention

  • Cost to municipalities: The bill shifts pension liability onto employers (state and local governments), potentially increasing unfunded pension obligations and taxpayer costs
  • Equity concerns: Provides a benefit unavailable to non-veteran public employees, raising questions about fairness and whether military service should receive special pension treatment
  • Buyback pricing: The mechanism for calculating the cost of purchasing service credit is not specified in the title, creating uncertainty about affordability and whether pricing adequately covers actuarial costs

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

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