Massachusetts H5507: An Act authorizing the Adams Fire District to allow firefighters to continue to serve past the age of 65

What the bill says

From the introduced text, June 8, 2026:

SECTION 1. (a) Notwithstanding any general or special law to the contrary, call firefighters, volunteer firefighters and fire engineers of the Adams fire district who would be subject to mandatory retirement on the last day of the month in which they turn 65 years old, and, if a member of the retirement system, would be retired for superannuation, may serve in such position until the age of 70, until the date of retirement or non-reappointment, whichever occurs first; provided, however, that said firefighter or fire engineer is mentally and physically capable of performing the duties of the position. The Adams fire district may, at the employee’s expense, require that the employee be examined by an impartial physician, acceptable to the fire district, to determine the firefighter or fire engineer’s fitness to remain in service. (b) No deductions shall be made from the regular compensation of said call firefighters, volunteer firefighters and fire engineers pursuant to chapter 32 of the General Laws for any service performed by such firefighters or fire engineers subsequent to reaching the age of 65 for retirement or pension purposes. Upon retirement pursuant to this act of a firefighter or fire engineer over the age of 65, they shall receive a superannuation retirement allowance equal to that which they would have been entitled had they retired at …

Read the full official text

Sponsors

• John Barrett (D) · primary sponsor

Latest actions

1. September 17, 2026: Accompanied a study order, see H5672 (under House Rule 27)
2. July 14, 2026: Hearing rescheduled to 07/14/2026 from 11:00 AM-11:20 AM in A-1 <br> <span style="color: blue; font-style: italic;">Hearing updated to New End Time</span>
3. June 30, 2026: Hearing scheduled for 07/14/2026 from 11:00 AM-04:00 PM in A-1
4. June 15, 2026: Senate concurred
5. June 11, 2026: Reported, referred to the committee on Joint Rules, reported, rules suspended and referred to the committee on Public Service
6. June 8, 2026: Referred to the committee on House Rules
7. : Reported by committee to Clerk’s Office for processing, will accompany a study order

Common questions

What is H5507?

H5507 is a bill in the Massachusetts Legislature (194th General Court): An Act authorizing the Adams Fire District to allow firefighters to continue to serve past the age of 65.

What is the status of H5507?

Failed as of September 17, 2026. Latest action: Accompanied a study order, see H5672 (under House Rule 27) (September 17, 2026).

Who sponsored H5507?

John Barrett (D).

Where is the official record for H5507?

On the Massachusetts Legislature website: https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H5507