Provides PFRS member in federal or State military service who is injured or killed with disability or death benefits.
Impact
The proposed adjustments signify an enhancement of support to those who engage in both civil service and military service. By classifying military service members as active members of the PFRS, the bill provides certain assurances and protections that were previously ambiguous. It guarantees that these individuals and their families will receive appropriate benefits, thereby acknowledging their dual commitment to both public safety and national defense. Such benefits include pensions to surviving family members, ensuring they are taken care of financially in the event of the member's death.
Summary
Bill S3698 was introduced in New Jersey to amend the current Police and Firemen's Retirement System (PFRS) benefits regarding members who serve in federal or state military roles. The legislation seeks to ensure that police officers and firefighters who are injured or killed while in military service maintain their eligibility for disability and death benefits under the PFRS. This change is critical in affirming that any PFRS member called into active military service, whether on federal orders or state orders, is recognized as an active member of their retirement system.
Contention
While the bill presents vital support for those in uniform, potential points of contention could arise concerning the funding of these expanded benefits. Critics may point out concerns over the financial sustainability of the retirement system if more demands are placed upon it due to increased membership under the bill’s definitions. Additionally, there could be debates about how this bill affects equal treatment within the broader context of retirement benefits for all public sector employees. Ensuring fairness while providing these enhancements to military service members will likely be a significant aspect of the legislative discourse surrounding S3698.
Increases accidental death benefit for surviving spouse or surviving children of certain PERS members and retirants; provides accidental death benefit to beneficiary of certain PERS and PFRS members and retirants; redefines child.
Increases accidental death benefit for surviving spouse or surviving children of certain PERS members and retirants; provides accidental death benefit to beneficiary of certain PERS and PFRS members and retirants; redefines child.
Requires cost of living increase to be granted in each of two calendar years for certain retired members and beneficiaries of PFRS; makes appropriation.
Requires cost of living increase to be granted in each of two calendar years for certain retired members and beneficiaries of PFRS; makes appropriation.
Requires cost of living increase to be granted in each of two calendar years for certain retired members and beneficiaries of PFRS; makes appropriation.