New Jersey Assembly Bill A1112

New Jersey 2024-2025 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/9/24
• Refer: 1/9/24

Caption

Extends eligibility for certain civil service and pension benefits for veterans.

Impact

The impact of A1112 is significant as it seeks to create a more inclusive definition of veteran status. Currently, the state law restricts eligibility for benefits to those who have served during defined wartime periods or in specific locations. This bill aims to recognize the contributions of all military personnel, including those who served domestically or during peacetime, ensuring they receive the recognition and benefits they deserve. The legislation is particularly focused on acknowledging the service of individuals like first responders who were active during events such as the September 11 attacks.

Summary

Assembly Bill A1112 aims to extend eligibility for certain civil service preference and pension benefits to veterans in New Jersey. The proposed legislation revises the definition of a veteran by eliminating restrictions related to specific periods of service or geographical locations in which the service must have occurred. This change would allow any resident of New Jersey who has been discharged under non-dishonorable conditions from military duty to be classified as a veteran for the purposes of accessing civil service and retirement benefits.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding A1112 may include concerns over the potential fiscal impact of extending benefits to a broader group of veterans and discussions regarding the balance between honoring service while managing state resources. Supporters argue that all service members deserve recognition regardless of where or when they served, while critics may worry about the implications for public funding of pension systems and civil service preferences. The bill's intent to redefine veteran status is rooted in modernizing outdated perspectives on military service and ensuring equity within the state's veterans' benefits structure.