New Jersey Assembly Bill A3086

New Jersey 2024-2025 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/9/24
• Refer: 1/9/24

Caption

Permits inclusion of volunteer firefighters and other emergency responders within municipal eligible employee group for purposes of the small employer health benefits plan statutes.

Impact

The bill is expected to facilitate better access to health benefits for a key group of municipal service providers who often serve crucial roles in public safety and emergency response. By clarifying the eligible employee criteria, the legislation aims to enhance the attractiveness of volunteering for fire and emergency services, which is critical for maintaining sufficient emergency response capabilities in communities across New Jersey. It can potentially lead to increased retention and recruitment of volunteers, thereby improving public safety.

Summary

Assembly Bill A3086 aims to amend existing health benefits regulations in New Jersey by including volunteer firefighters and other emergency responders within the group of eligible employees for small employer health benefits plans. This legislation resolves a conflict between two provisions concerning the eligibility of these volunteers, ensuring that they receive equitable health coverage under municipal health plans alongside regular employees. Prior to this bill, municipalities were allowed to provide health benefits to volunteer emergency personnel, but these individuals were not classified as eligible employees for health benefits coverage under small employer statutes.

Contention

Open discussions around A3086 have highlighted the importance of inclusivity in health benefits while emphasizing the need for municipalities to sustain volunteer emergency services. Some stakeholders argue that this amendment, while beneficial, could impose financial strains on smaller municipalities that may struggle to absorb the costs associated with enhanced health benefits. Balancing fair compensation and support for emergency responders with budget limitations continues to be a point of contention in the legislative process.