Permits surviving spouse of retired member of PFRS to be enrolled in SHBP and to continue to receive pension benefit after remarriage in certain circumstances.
Impact
If enacted, A5721 will amend existing state laws regarding health care and pension benefits for surviving spouses. Specifically, it will allow these individuals to maintain healthcare coverage fully funded by the state and to keep receiving pension benefits post-remarriage, conditional on providing documentation that illustrates a link between the disability of the deceased and their death. This legislative shift could significantly impact the financial circumstances of many families, potentially offering them a much-needed safety net during difficult transitions in their lives.
Summary
Assembly Bill A5721 introduces provisions permitting the surviving spouse of a retired member of the Police and Firemen's Retirement System (PFRS) to enroll in the State Health Benefits Program (SHBP) and to continue receiving pension benefits despite remarriage under specific conditions. This legislation aims to provide financial stability and healthcare coverage to spouses of retired service members, acknowledging their sacrifices and the risks associated with their partners' professions. The initiative is presented as a means of ensuring that families affected by the unfortunate loss of a public safety officer can still receive necessary benefits as they transition through changes, such as remarriage.
Sentiment
General sentiment around A5721 seems to be supportive, particularly among legislators concerned with the welfare of the families of public servants. Advocates for the measure argue that it recognizes the unique challenges these families face, notably in maintaining a sense of financial security following the loss of a partner. However, the specificity of the conditions required for continued benefits post-remarriage may raise questions about the bill's accessibility and could lead to discussions on the adequacy of the protections offered.
Contention
Notable points of contention may center around the eligibility criteria outlined in the bill. The requirement for surviving spouses to provide approved documentation linking the disability or earlier conditions of the deceased member as significant factors in their death could be viewed as a barrier for some families. Additionally, stakeholders may need to discuss the long-term financial implications for the state regarding pension funding as more surviving spouses would continue to receive benefits that might have previously been terminated upon remarriage.
Permits surviving spouse of retired member of PFRS to be enrolled in SHBP and to continue to receive pension benefit after remarriage in certain circumstances.
Permits surviving spouse of retired member of PFRS to be enrolled in SHBP and to continue to receive pension benefit after remarriage in certain circumstances.
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.
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.
Permits companion to receive PFRS accidental death pension when there is no surviving spouse; requires adjustment of final compensation for calculation of accidental death benefit for surviving spouse, companion, and children of PFRS members.
Permits surviving spouse of retired member of PFRS to be enrolled in SHBP and to continue to receive pension benefit after remarriage in certain circumstances.
Permits surviving spouse of retired member of PFRS to be enrolled in SHBP and to continue to receive pension benefit after remarriage in certain circumstances.
Provides for continuation of the weekly death benefit for the surviving spouse of a law enforcement officer killed in the line of duty upon remarriage. (8/1/20) (EN SEE FISC NOTE SG EX)