Administration July 16, 2010
MA ‘Municipal Relief’ Bill Goes to Governor
July 16, 2010 (PLANSPONSOR.com) – The Massachusetts Senate approved a measure allowing municipalities to pay their pension obligations at a slower rate and offering early retirement programs.
Reported by Fred Schneyer
With the state House’s approval (see MA House OKs Pension Change Measure) of what has been termed a “municipal relief” bill, the Associated Press said the measure now goes to the desk of Governor Deval Patrick for his signature. Patrick has expressed support for a number of the bill’s initiatives.
Municipalities can now extend out their pension payment schedules from 2030 to 2040.
Senate Republicans expressed dismay that the bill does not give municipalities the power to redesign their health care plans without going through collective bargaining with unions.
The legislation was a compromise between bills the House and Senate passed earlier this legislative session.