WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

HD 1461

An Act relative to veterans' buyback

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Shirley Arriaga

Allows Massachusetts veterans to purchase additional creditable service years in the public pension system to increase retirement benefits, potentially at subsidized rates.

0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HD 1461

Legislative bill overview

HD 1461 allows veterans to buy back creditable service time in the Massachusetts public employee retirement system, potentially at a reduced cost compared to standard actuarial calculations. This would enable veterans to increase their pension benefits by counting additional years of service toward their retirement calculations.

Why is this important

Veterans who may have service gaps or interrupted careers could reach higher pension tiers or eligibility thresholds more quickly, improving retirement security. The fiscal impact on the state pension system depends heavily on uptake rates and the pricing structure used for buybacks, which could represent a significant long-term liability.

Potential points of contention

  • Cost to the commonwealth: Depending on buyback pricing and participation rates, this could create substantial unfunded pension liabilities that taxpayers ultimately bear
  • Equity concerns: Other public employees without military service may question why veterans receive this benefit, or whether the pricing is actuarially fair to the system
  • Implementation details unclear: The bill's language likely leaves unanswered questions about eligibility windows, allowable service types, payment schedules, and whether reduced pricing is subsidized by the state

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

Sign in to ask a question.