New Jersey Senate Bill S2375

New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/24/22
• Refer: 3/24/22

Caption

Increases PFRS accidental disability and accidental death pension when disability or death is caused by weapon.

Impact

Upon the enactment of S2375, a PFRS member who gets permanently disabled due to a weapon-related incident will receive a pension equal to 100% of their final compensation, compared to the previous standard of 66%. For members who reach retirement age, this would drop to 80% of their adjusted final compensation. Similarly, for survivors of members who die in the line of duty from a weapon, the survivor's pension will increase from 70% to 75% of the deceased member's final compensation. These changes are integral to ensuring that the families of public safety employees receive adequate support during difficult times.

Summary

Senate Bill 2375 (S2375) modifies the benefit structure of the Police and Firemen's Retirement System (PFRS) in New Jersey, focusing specifically on accidental disability and death pensions. The bill mandates an increase in the pension amount received by members who are either disabled or who die as a direct result of injuries sustained from a weapon while on duty. This change aims to provide enhanced financial support to affected members and their families, reflecting the inherent risks associated with their professions in law enforcement and firefighting.

Contention

While there is broad support for improving benefits for those who serve and protect, there may be debates surrounding the financial implications of these changes on the PFRS and state budget. Critics might argue that increasing benefits at this level could strain public finances, especially if incidents resulting in such disabilities or fatalities increase. Furthermore, some may question the scope of what constitutes 'weapon-related' incidents, potentially leading to discussions about how this bill might affect future legislative measures dealing with pension reforms for public service workers.