New Jersey Assembly Bill A792

New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/11/22
• Refer: 1/11/22

Caption

Permits reimbursement of COBRA health benefit costs of survivors of certain deceased public safety employees; appropriates $750,000.

Impact

If enacted, A792 would significantly influence the financial landscape surrounding health benefits for the families of fallen public safety employees in New Jersey. The bill earmarks an appropriation of $750,000 from the General Fund to facilitate these reimbursements. This funding commitment underscores the state's recognition of the sacrifices made by public safety employees and the need to support their families during challenging times. The provision allowing for pro rata distribution of funds emphasizes a fair approach to reimbursement, particularly in scenarios where available funding may be limited in any given year.

Summary

Assembly Bill A792 focuses on providing financial relief for the dependents of certain public safety employees who have passed away. It allows survivors, which includes spouses and unmarried children of the deceased, to apply for reimbursement of costs associated with COBRA continuation coverage, specifically for the first six months of this coverage. The bill outlines that these dependents may apply to the State Treasurer for reimbursement if the public safety employee died while on duty or shortly after. The aim is to alleviate the burden of health insurance costs on families coping with the loss of a provider, while still enabling them the option to maintain COBRA coverage for a total of 36 months.

Contention

Discussions around A792 revealed a recognition of the need for support for the survivors of public safety employees, but concerns lingered regarding the adequacy of the appropriated funds. Some legislators expressed doubt about whether $750,000 would be sufficient to meet the number of applications anticipated from qualifying dependents, particularly in populous areas or in the wake of tragic events involving multiple casualties. The balance between adequately funding this support and ensuring long-term sustainability of funding for similar programs remains a point of contention among lawmakers.