Former Speaker DiMasi’s Pension Suspended

Former Massachusetts House Speaker Salvatore DiMasi has lost his battle to regain his $5,000-per-month state pension, but will receive $25,000 in back pension payments.

The Massachusetts Retirement Board on Thursday suspended DiMasi’s pension pending the conclusion of his public corruption case, but voted the suspension will take effect on Nov. 1.

State Treasurer Timothy Cahill initially suspended the pension after DiMasi was indicted in June.

DiMasi has argued that denial of his pension is causing a financial hardship and is a violation of his due process rights.

DiMasi and three associates are charged in an alleged bid-rigging scheme for a state software contract that prosecutors say netted the former speaker $57,000. He stepped down in January.

DiMasi has denied any wrongdoing.