State OKs Framingham Cop To Work Past Retirement Age

FRAMINGHAM, MA — A Framingham police officer wanted to stay on the job, but he needed approval from the state Legislature first.

Framingham officer James Green will turn 65 in early February. Under state law, police officers, firefighters and correction officers are forced to retire at that age unless they get special approval from their employer and the Legislature.

Green appeared before the Framingham City Council on Dec. 1 to ask them to support him pushing off retirement until 2023. Green sought and won the approval of the extension from former chief Steven Trask, interim chief Ronald Brandolini and new Chief Lester Baker.

The Council approved his request, with the caveat that he get a physical examination to ensure he can perform all his job duties.

"We're lucky someone like this who is willing to stay on," District 6 Councilor Philip Ottaviani said before voting to approve Green's request.

State Rep. Maria Robinson filed the legislation on Dec. 14, and it was signed by Gov. Charlie Baker this week.

Green joined Framingham police in 1983 and has worked as a patrol officer and detective.