BOSTON — Senator Mark Montigny (D-New Bedford) has filed legislation to authorize retired New Bedford police officers to serve as special officers that would fill detail work vacancies.

The measure was previously negotiated between the City of New Bedford and the New Bedford Police Union to give the police chief discretion in appointing retired officers. Montigny is working with the union, City Council, and state delegation to secure the necessary state approval.

S2671 authorizes the New Bedford Police Chief to appoint retired NBPD officers as special police officers available to fulfill police details. Appointees must have retired from the department not more than 4.5 years prior to appointment and may not exceed age 65. Special officers must also pass a medical exam and demonstrate that they can perform the essential functions of the job.

The legislation was filed by Montigny to satisfy part of the collective bargaining agreement between the city and New Bedford Police Union, which was agreed upon earlier this year. The Joint Committee on Public Service is scheduled to hear the bill on Monday, November 19.

"Providing Chief Cordeiro with additional experienced officers will advance his department's ability to keep our city safe," said Senator Montigny.

Office of Senator Mark C Montigny

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