New Jersey Assembly Bill A4364

New Jersey 2024-2025 Regular Session

• Introduced: 5/13/24
• Refer: 5/13/24

Caption

Establishes EMS part of PERS; provides enhanced benefits for emergency medical services employees.

Impact

The bill mandates that membership in this new EMS Part is a condition of employment, ensuring that benefits such as pensions and retirement allowances are accessible to individuals fulfilling these vital roles. Specifically, it introduces provisions for pension calculations based on years of service and final compensation, which may result in increased retirement allowances for EMS workers. Additionally, the legislation outlines the state's responsibility for covering any increased pension costs for counties or municipalities resulting from the enrollment of EMS employees in this enhanced retirement system, potentially creating a budgetary impact for local governments.

Summary

Assembly Bill A4364 seeks to create a distinct part within the Public Employees' Retirement System (PERS) specifically for emergency medical services (EMS) employees, thereby enhancing their retirement benefits. This bill classifies various roles under EMS, including emergency medical technicians, paramedics, flight paramedics, and supervisors, and outlines their eligibility for this retirement plan, which aligns their benefits with those currently available to prosecutors within the same system. The inclusion of EMS employees is seen as a necessary step in acknowledging their essential public service roles and the demands associated with those positions.

Contention

While proponents argue that this bill is crucial for providing fair compensation and benefits to EMS workers, who often face life-threatening situations and high levels of stress, there may also be concerns regarding the fiscal implications for the state's public pension system. Critics could point to the financial strain on local budgets and potential increases in taxes or reductions in services to accommodate the enhanced benefits. Ultimately, discussions around the bill may center on the balance between providing essential benefits to frontline workers and ensuring fiscal responsibility within the state's budget.