New Jersey Assembly Bill A832

New Jersey 2024-2025 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/9/24
• Refer: 1/9/24

Caption

Extends pension eligibility for survivors of certain emergency services volunteers who contracted COVID-19 during 2020 public health emergency declared by Governor.

Impact

Currently, a widow, child, or parent of a volunteer who dies in the line of duty can receive a survivor's pension, which varies based on the survivor's relationship to the deceased. The bill would categorize the deaths due to COVID-19 as resulting from injuries incurred during duty, as long as the volunteer interacted with the public or supervised staff interaction with the public during the health emergency. This eligibility is significant given that many volunteers contracted the virus while serving their communities during critical times.

Summary

Assembly Bill 832 aims to expand pension eligibility for survivors of certain volunteer emergency services personnel who contracted COVID-19 during the public health emergency declared by the Governor of New Jersey in March 2020. This bill modifies existing laws that regulate survivor pensions for the families of volunteer firefighters, first aid workers, rescue squad workers, and emergency medical technicians who have died due to their service. The proposed changes will ensure that families receive economic support if their loved ones contracted the virus while performing their duties.

Contention

Debate around this bill rests on its implications for state pension laws and how they define and recognize injuries resulting from public service. Supporters view it as a necessary adjustment to honor the sacrifices of volunteer emergency responders while ensuring their families receive the financial support they deserve. However, there may be concerns over potential increased financial burdens on local municipalities and the state, especially with a pension system already under strain. The retroactive application of the pension may also provoke discussions regarding its fairness and operational feasibility.