New Jersey Senate Bill S284

New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

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

Caption

Provides for accidental death benefit if death of TPAF member and certain PERS members is caused by COVID-19.

Impact

The implementation of S284 is significant as it recognizes the contribution and sacrifice of public employees, particularly those engaged in education and public safety roles during the public health crisis. By designating these deaths as accidental and linked to their professional duties, the bill facilitates access to benefits that can aid surviving family members. It is expected to impact the financial and emotional welfare of families who have lost loved ones in such unfortunate circumstances, thereby providing some recognition of their service during an unprecedented health emergency.

Summary

Bill S284 aims to provide an accidental death benefit to members of the Teachers' Pension and Annuity Fund (TPAF) and specific members of the Public Employees' Retirement System (PERS) whose deaths are attributed to COVID-19. This is a response to the circumstances during the public health emergency declared by the Governor of New Jersey, and it establishes criteria under which these deaths will be recognized as incidents occurring in the line of duty. The primary components specify that a member must have contracted COVID-19 while performing their duties and subsequently died from the virus or complications related to it. This provision highlights the risks faced by members of these pension funds during the pandemic.

Contention

While the overall sentiment towards this bill appears to be supportive of providing necessary benefits to affected families, discussions may arise regarding the limitations it sets specifically on those who have retired and returned to work. The bill expressly excludes individuals who retire and then return to work under specific executive orders, which could be a point of contention among various stakeholders, including unions and advocacy groups. The provisions also underscore an acknowledgment of the public health emergency's role in workplace safety and employee wellbeing.