PERAC Memo #21 - 2011: Notice of Potential Benefits Pursuant to G.L. c. 32, § 4(1)(h)

MEMORANDUM #21, 2011 Mennis M E M O R A N D U M TO: All Retirement Boards FROM: Joseph E. Connarton, Executive Director RE: Notice of Potential Benefits Pursuant to G.L. c. 32, § 4(1)(h) DATE: June 2, 2011 The Commission is in the process of reviewing its general membership forms and editing them where necessary. The Notice of Potential Benefits Pursuant to G.L. c. 32, § 4(1)(h) has been updated to reflect the most recent version of the “State Veteran Status Eligibility” provisions as adopted by the Department of Veteran’s Services. Please refer to PERAC Memo # 21/2004 which outlines the changes to the definition of a Veteran for purposes of G.L. c. 32, § 4(1)(h). Of particular note, G.L. c. 32, § 4(1)(h) was amended by Section 3 of Chapter 130 of the Acts of 2005 which removed the word “Massachusetts” from any reference to the Massachusetts National guard in that section of the statute. The removal of the word “Massachusetts” is relevant, as the change results in any member of the National Guard of any state may have the right to benefits pursuant to G.L. c. 32, § 4(1)(h) if such member meets the other requirements therein. Before the change, G.L. c. 32, § 4(1)(h) only allowed eligible members of the Massachusetts National Guard to purchase their past veteran’s service. The Commission has amended this form to reflect the change in G.L. c. 32, § 4(1)(h) by removing the word “Massachusetts” from any references to the Massachusetts National Guard on the form. We trust the foregoing is of assistance. If you have further questions or concerns, please contact this office. Enclosure