Massachusetts House Bill H2988

Massachusetts 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/27/25
• Refer: 2/27/25
• Refer: 8/21/25
• Engrossed: 10/20/25
• Engrossed: 3/30/26
• Enrolled: 4/2/26
• Chaptered: 4/10/26
• Passed: 4/10/26

Caption

Authorizing Freddy Castaneda to take the civil service examination for the position of police officer in the city of Haverhill notwithstanding the maximum age requirement

Impact

The bill, if passed, will allow Freddy Castaneda to be eligible for certification and appointment as a police officer, provided he fulfills all other requirements set forth for candidates. This exemption has been designed to ensure that age does not bar qualified individuals from entering positions within the city’s police department, thereby aiming to enhance the diversity and talent available for public safety roles.

Summary

House Bill 2988 aims to authorize Freddy Castaneda to take the civil service examination for the position of police officer in Haverhill, Massachusetts, despite not meeting the maximum age requirement typically stipulated for such appointments. The bill is presented by Representative Andres X. Vargas and co-signed by Senator Barry R. Finegold, with local approval already obtained from the Haverhill city council and mayor. This legislation specifically addresses individual eligibility for a single candidate rather than altering the broader law governing police appointments.

Contention

While the bill primarily focuses on one individual, it opens discussions regarding the implications of age restrictions in civil service appointments. Advocates may argue that prior age limits are overly restrictive and potentially eliminate capable candidates who may contribute significantly to community policing efforts. Conversely, critics may contend that such exceptions could lead to concerns over uniform standards in hiring practices within police departments, emphasizing the importance of maintaining age requirements to ensure physical capability and fitness for the role.