New Jersey Assembly Bill A5208

New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/16/23
• Refer: 2/16/23
• Report Pass: 2/23/23
• Engrossed: 2/27/23
• Refer: 2/28/23
• Report Pass: 11/30/23
• Enrolled: 12/11/23
• Chaptered: 1/8/24
• Passed: 1/8/24

Caption

Extends provisions of P.L.2021, c.498 in certain circumstances.

Impact

The proposed changes allow former employees who have reached the service retirement age to return to work within the Legislature without canceling their retirement benefits. It is designed to create a pathway for experienced individuals to contribute to the legislative process again, even if in a limited capacity. The bill emphasizes that the re-employment must not exceed 20 hours a week and that any pre-arrangement was prohibited prior to retirement, safeguarding against circumventing the retirement system's intent.

Summary

Assembly Bill A5208, introduced in the New Jersey Legislature, seeks to amend existing regulations regarding the return to employment of former employees of the Legislature after their retirement from the Public Employees' Retirement System (PERS). The bill specifically extends the provisions outlined in P.L.2021, c.498, allowing retirees of the PERS to re-enter state employment under certain conditions. Initially, retirees could only return for a two-year period; however, this bill modifies that term to four years for those retiring during the period of 2023 and 2024.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding A5208 include concerns about the implications this might have for the workforce within the Legislature. Supporters highlight that this could help mitigate potential staffing shortages, adding experienced personnel to the legislative staff. However, apprehensions have been raised regarding the potential for this to create an imbalance in opportunities for current non-retired legislative employees, who may face reduced prospects due to the influx of returning retirees. This discussion reflects broader concerns about employment practices and potential favoritism in hiring processes within state employment contexts.