New Jersey Senate Bill S2525

New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 5/12/22
• Refer: 5/12/22

Caption

Permits application for PERS accidental disability benefit for injury sustained after January 2003 while employed at State psychiatric institution or correctional facility immediately prior to PERS membership.

Impact

If passed, S2525 would amend existing laws governing the PERS, essentially providing a pathway for a group of public employees currently limited to workers' compensation benefits to access a broader set of disability benefits. The bill stipulates that traumatic events occurring while performing assigned duties at psychiatric institutions or correctional facilities can be considered as occurring during PERS membership, enhancing support for employees who may face long-term disabilities due to their work environment. This change may significantly impact many employees who serve in high-risk roles.

Summary

Senate Bill S2525, introduced in New Jersey, focuses on expanding eligibility for accidental disability benefits under the Public Employees' Retirement System (PERS). Specifically, it allows individuals who were temporarily employed at state psychiatric institutions or correctional facilities and sustained injuries during their employment, to apply for these benefits. The bill aims to provide a means for these employees to secure benefits even if their injuries occurred prior to their formal membership in the retirement system, as long as they later become PERS members without interruption of service. This retroactive provision applies to injuries sustained from January 2003 onward.

Contention

The discussion surrounding S2525 may present notable points of contention, particularly among lawmakers and stakeholders involved in public employee benefits. Proponents assert the bill rectifies a gap in support for temporary employees who may be subjected to the same risks and injuries as their permanent counterparts. Critics, however, might question the implications of expanding PERS benefits retroactively and its potential impact on the state's pension fund sustainability. This contentious dialogue will likely involve balancing the interests of public safety and the financial health of the retirement system.