Press Release  Governor Healey Celebrates New Law Enhancing Protections for State Law Enforcement Officers

Boston — Today, Governor Maura Healey celebrated a new law that enhances protections for state law enforcement officers who suffer catastrophic injuries due to an act of violence while in the line of duty. The legislation, which was included in the FY-2025 supplemental budget, ensures that injured state police officers receive the same disability and retirement benefits as other first responders, providing greater financial security for them and their families. Governor Healey signed this provision, which was sponsored by Representative Jessica Giannino, into law on November 25, 2025. 

“As a former Prosecutor and Attorney General, I know firsthand how Law enforcement officers put themselves in harm’s way every single day to keep our communities safe,” said Governor Healey. “We owe it to them to make sure that they and their families are supported if they injured in the line of duty, and that is what this legislation does. I’m grateful to both the legislature and to the dedicated men and women of the Massachusetts State Police for securing these essential protections for their brother and sister officers.” 

“This law means peace of mind for the officers who have already paid a heavy price in service to their communities,” said Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll. “This law strengthens the safety net for the men and women who run toward danger. It reflects the voices of injured officers and families who fought for years to be seen and supported.” 

The new law ensures that members of the state police injured by violence while protecting the public are eligible to receive a disability retirement benefit equal to 100 percent of their regular compensation until reaching mandatory retirement age, with continued enhanced benefits thereafter. The legislation also expands eligibility and clarifies the definition of injuries sustained during violent acts, creating a more consistent and equitable system statewide.  

“I would like to thank Representative Jessica Gianino and her co-sponsors for presenting and amending House Bill . I would also like to thank Governor Maura Healey for her ongoing support of law enforcement in the Commonwealth as displayed by signing this bill,” said Lieutenant Donald Bossi, a Trooper seriously injured by a man operating a stolen motorcycle in Revere.  “Law enforcement professionals understand and accept the risks inherent in our profession.  This bill demonstrates the administration’s commitment to us.  As the victim of a violent, near fatal assault, I take great consolation in knowing that if I had succumbed to my injuries, or if I am not able to return to the career that I love, my family will be taken care of.” 

"This moment reminds us that the men and women who comprise the Massachusetts State  matter and it is an affirmation that the efforts to build relationships and establish the Association as a partner in this building, are working for our members. I also want to thank Governor Healey for signing this legislation and also for the open door that you and Lieutenant Governor Driscoll have extended to me and my team. I look forward to our continued work together," said President of the State Police Association of Massachusetts Brian Williams. "The Association is also grateful to the legislature for passing these protections for our members. In particular, I want to thank State Representative Jessica Giannino, who is the lead sponsor of our bill. Rep. Giannino, you are a leading voice for all of public safety and we are all lucky to have you in our corner. Thanks to Chairs Michlewitz and Rodrigues for their willingness to navigate this to the finish line, and to leaders and members of the House and Senate for their support. Secretary Kwon, and Colonel Noble, I appreciate your leadership and look forward to continuing to work with you both to strengthen the Massachusetts State Police.” 

“Our first responders put their lives on the line every day, and supporting them and their families is one of our most solemn and important duties,” said Senate President Karen E. Spilka (D-Ashland). “Building on a strong law we passed last year, this provision ensures we care for the financial security of law enforcement officers whose lives and families are disrupted by the unthinkable.” 

“The women and men of the Massachusetts State Police deeply appreciate the action of Governor Healey and the State Legislature to deliver important resources for those affected by violence in the course of their duties,” said Colonel Geoffrey Noble. “Those who raise their hand to serve will never walk alone in their hour of need. These enhanced measures fulfill our collective promise to stand with public servants who suffer an enormous personal cost.” 

“I want to thank Governor Healey for signing this important expansion into law and for her continued commitment to the men and women who serve on the front lines of public safety. I am also deeply grateful to Speaker Mariano and Chair Michlewitz, for their partnership and leadership in advancing this legislation. I am proud to have been the original sponsor of the law that created violent line-of-duty injury protections for police officers, and the amendment extending those same protections to Massachusetts State Troopers is a critical and long-overdue step. When an officer or trooper is permanently injured by violence while protecting others, they deserve certainty, dignity, and full support from the Commonwealth,” said Representative Jessica Giannino. 

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