Provides certain volunteer and other workers with maximum compensation benefit for workers' compensation claim regardless of outside employment.
The legislation is a response to a landmark state Supreme Court case, Kocanowski v. Twp. of Bridgewater, which underscored the intention of lawmakers for volunteer firefighters to receive maximum compensation under workers' compensation statutes, regardless of their income status. This bill amplifies protections for volunteer workers, who often face the same dangers and risks as their full-time counterparts, by guaranteeing them financial support in cases of work-related injuries or fatalities without having their external job statuses influence their claims.
Bill A1315 in New Jersey pertains to workers' compensation benefits for certain volunteer and other workers. Specifically, it aims to ensure that these individuals receive the maximum compensation benefits for injuries or death incurred while performing their duties, irrespective of any outside employment they may have. By revising R.S.34:15-75, the legislation intends to eliminate ambiguities that might exist in the current laws related to workers' compensation for this group of workers, especially those who serve voluntarily in public service roles such as firefighters and first responders.
While the bill is ostensibly a positive step towards better support for volunteer workers, there may be concerns or debates regarding the implications of such measures. Some stakeholders might argue about the fiscal impact on state resources, particularly considering how increased benefits could affect funding for state and local services. Additionally, the legislation’s implementation might also raise questions about the requirements for validating claims made by volunteer workers, potentially leading to discussions among lawmakers about the balance between adequate support and fiscal sustainability.