During
its recent budget debate, the House of Representatives approved amendment #274,
the Caucus’ proposal to establish a task force to develop uniform policies for
cashing out unused vacation and sick leave credits. The amendment mirrors language
included in House Bill 2559, which is currently pending before the Joint
Committee on Public Service.
Just
two years ago, former Bridgewater State University President Dana Mohler-Faria
cashed in nearly $270,000 in unused sick and vacation time when he retired. In
March, longtime Mount Wachusett Community College President Daniel M. Asquino
retired with a payout of more than $334,000 for unused sick and vacation time. The
Board of Higher Education now caps vacation payouts at 64 days and prohibits
state college employees from converting their unused vacation time into earned
sick time, but it’s clear that more reforms are needed.
If
the task force language is included in the final budget sent to Governor Baker,
its recommendations will be filed with the legislature by December 31, 2017. Reforming the current system will ensure the
Commonwealth’s vacation and sick leave policies are in line with other public
employers, while promoting greater fiscal responsibility throughout state
government.
