New Jersey Assembly Bill A4022

New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 5/16/22
• Refer: 5/16/22

Caption

Expands definition of child under PFRS and SPRS.

Impact

If enacted, A4022 will directly affect the retirement benefits available to children of members who have passed away, broadening the support to more dependents. Currently, children must meet specific criteria, including being survivors of a member who died while on duty, to be eligible. This change aims to provide financial assistance to all children who might have lost a parent, irrespective of the circumstances surrounding the parent’s death. Given that childhood education can be a financial burden, this bill supports continued education among younger adults who might be struggling after the loss of a parent.

Summary

Assembly Bill A4022 seeks to amend the definition of 'child' under the Police and Firemen's Retirement System (PFRS) and State Police Retirement System (SPRS) in New Jersey. This bill extends the eligibility criteria for the classification of children of deceased members by allowing those under the age of 24 who are enrolled in a degree program at an institution of higher education for at least 12 credit hours to qualify as a child, regardless of whether the deceased member died in the line of duty or not. This represents a significant shift from existing laws that required the death to be duty-related for the child category to apply.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding A4022 could stem from the implications of providing benefits to a potentially broader group of beneficiaries. Critics may argue that this could lead to increased financial strains on the retirement systems if many qualified individuals access these benefits, especially if a significant number of members pass away. Supporters, however, contend that providing support to all children of fallen members fosters a sense of community and responsibility acknowledging the sacrifices law enforcement and fire service members make, generating goodwill and potentially benefiting society as a whole through educated youth.