New Jersey Senate Bill S2689

New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 5/19/22
• Refer: 5/19/22
• Report Pass: 5/18/23
• Refer: 5/18/23
• Report Pass: 6/20/23
• Engrossed: 6/26/23
• Refer: 6/27/23

Caption

Expands definition of child under PFRS and SPRS.

Impact

If enacted, S2689 will modify state retirement laws regarding benefits for children of deceased law enforcement and firefighters. Currently, eligibility is strictly limited to children who meet specific criteria, including being dependents of members who died in active service due to duty-related incidents. This bill would remove that limitation, granting broader access to benefits for any qualifying child of a deceased member. This move is seen as an important step towards acknowledging and supporting families affected by the loss of first responders.

Summary

Bill S2689 seeks to broaden the definition of 'child' under New Jersey's Police and Firemen's Retirement System (PFRS) and State Police Retirement System (SPRS). The proposed amendment allows children of deceased members who are under the age of 24 and enrolled in a degree program at an accredited institution of higher education for at least 12 credits per semester to qualify as dependents, regardless of the circumstances of the member's death. This change aims to provide additional support to young adults who are pursuing education and lost a parent who served in the line of duty or otherwise.

Contention

Opposition to the bill may arise from concerns over potential financial implications for the pension systems, as expanding benefits could increase the number of eligible claimants and thus the financial burden on the retirement systems. Proponents argue that supporting the educational endeavors of children's dependents is a moral obligation and aligns with the values of honoring those who serve and protect. The debate may revolve around balancing financial sustainability of the retirement funds and providing adequate support for families in need.