Provides PFRS member in federal or State military service who is injured or killed with disability or death benefits.
Impact
The primary impact of A503 is on the benefits system for active PFRS members. By including military service under the active member designation, the bill reinforces the commitment to supporting those who serve both in uniform and for their communities. The amendment helps streamline the process for beneficiaries to receive appropriate benefits following the death or disability of a member while on active duty, thereby offering peace of mind for individuals who serve in both law enforcement or firefighting and military roles.
Summary
Assembly Bill A503 amends existing statutes concerning the Police and Firemen's Retirement System (PFRS) to ensure that members who are called to active military duty, either federal or state, are still considered active members of the retirement system. This designation is crucial because it allows these members to retain eligibility for death or disability benefits if they are killed or injured while serving in the military. The bill aims to provide enhanced support and protection to police officers and firefighters facing the unique risks associated with military service.
Contention
Discussions around A503 indicate there may be points of contention regarding how these benefits are managed and what criteria will define 'active duty.' Some legislators may raise concerns about the implications of defining active member status during military service, while others may seek to ensure that existing benefits are not unduly strained or altered inappropriately. Ensuring that sufficient resources are available for both military and PFRS benefits may also be a topic of debate as the bill progresses through the legislative process.
Increases accidental death benefit for surviving spouse or surviving children of certain PERS members and retirants; provides accidental death benefit to beneficiary of certain PERS and PFRS members and retirants; redefines child.
Increases accidental death benefit for surviving spouse or surviving children of certain PERS members and retirants; provides accidental death benefit to beneficiary of certain PERS and PFRS members and retirants; redefines child.
Requires cost of living increase to be granted in each of two calendar years for certain retired members and beneficiaries of PFRS; makes appropriation.
Requires cost of living increase to be granted in each of two calendar years for certain retired members and beneficiaries of PFRS; makes appropriation.
Requires cost of living increase to be granted in each of two calendar years for certain retired members and beneficiaries of PFRS; makes appropriation.