Senate amends law to clarify adjutant general’s command authority; adds recruit training requirement

The Massachusetts Senate on Nov. 6 adopted amendments and ordered Senate No. 2675, an act clarifying the duties of the adjutant general, to a third reading and passed the bill to be engrossed.

Sponsor and committee explanation: Senator Velez described the measure as a technical correction to Chapter 33 of the Massachusetts General Laws to clarify that the adjutant general, in carrying out the policies and orders of the governor, has command of Massachusetts National Guard troops for state missions. The change was presented as aligning Massachusetts with the statutory structure used by most other states and ensuring the adjutant general can convene courts‑martial, serve as an appeal authority and, when appropriate, impose non‑judicial punishment.

Floor amendments: Senator Moore offered multiple amendments on topics including limits on entry of non‑federalized Guard units from other states and training for recruits on lawful orders. Several of Moore’s amendments were withdrawn or defeated after debate; Amendment 4 (new‑recruit training on lawful orders) passed on a roll call vote. On the floor, proponents said the training underscores service members’ obligation to follow lawful orders and their duty under the Uniform Code of Military Justice while also ensuring familiarity with obligations to refuse manifestly illegal orders.

Vote and next steps: After amendment votes, the chamber ordered the bill to a third reading and a roll call was conducted, after which the clerk announced the bill had been passed to be engrossed. The bill is now on the path toward final legislative steps and potential enactment.

Quote (selected): "By making this technical correction, the…