BOSTON (AP) – State workers who go on active duty in the U.S. Armed Forces would be guaranteed their state salary and other benefits under a bill approved Thursday by the House.
The bill, which is retroactive to Sept. 11, 2001, passed unanimously and could cost taxpayers up to $4 million.
Currently, 144 state employees called up on active duty are earning, on average, 29 percent less than they would on the state payroll.
The bill would guarantee employees their state salary rate by paying the difference, if applicable, between the military pay and their regular civilian pay. It also would assure seniority rights and other benefits.
The average annual salary for enlisted military is $35,381, compared to their average state salary of $51,345.
About 4,700 military reservists and National Guardsmen from Massachusetts are on active duty.
The bill now goes to the state Senate.
AP-ES-11-06-03 2026EST
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