Permits application for PERS accidental disability benefit for injury sustained after January 2003 while employed at State psychiatric institution or correctional facility immediately prior to PERS membership.
Impact
If enacted, S285 will significantly alter the nuance of state law regarding employees in high-risk environments, such as healthcare workers and correction officers, who may suffer disabling injuries. By expanding the scope of PERS to include temporary workers who sustain injuries during their duties, the bill acknowledges the contributions and risks faced by these employees, thereby offering them protection and support similar to that of full-time members. This could enhance workforce morale and retention within the state employment framework, as it recognizes their sacrifices even before formal enrollment into the retirement system.
Summary
Senate Bill 285 (S285) proposes to amend the eligibility criteria for the Public Employees' Retirement System (PERS) by allowing members to apply for accidental disability benefits for injuries sustained while temporarily employed at State psychiatric institutions or correctional facilities. Under current law, temporary employees are not eligible for PERS membership until their employment becomes permanent or they have served for at least one year. As a result, injuries incurred during this interim period do not qualify for PERS benefits, leaving these individuals reliant on workers' compensation. This bill aims to rectify this gap by retroactively addressing injuries sustained from January 1, 2003, onward, thereby providing members with a pathway to access benefits for disabilities resulting from such incidents.
Contention
There may be both support and opposition surrounding S285. Proponents argue that it represents a much-needed step toward ensuring fair treatment for all State employees, regardless of their job security status at the time of injury. Conversely, critics might warn that creating expanded eligibility for benefits could impose additional financial burdens on the retirement system, particularly if claims rise after implementation. The discussion surrounding this legislation could center on balancing adequate support for public employees while maintaining the integrity and sustainability of the PERS.
Same As
Permits application for PERS accidental disability benefit for injury sustained after January 2003 while employed at State psychiatric institution or correctional facility immediately prior to PERS membership.
Carry Over
Permits application for PERS accidental disability benefit for injury sustained after January 2003 while employed at State psychiatric institution or correctional facility immediately prior to PERS membership.
NJ S2525
Carry Over
Permits application for PERS accidental disability benefit for injury sustained after January 2003 while employed at State psychiatric institution or correctional facility immediately prior to PERS membership.
Permits application for PERS accidental disability benefit for injury sustained after January 2003 while employed at State psychiatric institution or correctional facility immediately prior to PERS membership.
Permits application for PERS accidental disability benefit for injury sustained after January 2003 while employed at State psychiatric institution or correctional facility immediately prior to PERS membership.
Permits application for PERS accidental disability benefit for injury sustained after January 2003 while employed at State psychiatric institution or correctional facility immediately prior to PERS membership.
Permits any member of PERS to receive accidental disability retirement allowance for disability resulting from participation in 9/11 World Trade Center rescue, recovery, or cleanup options.
Permits any member of PERS to receive accidental disability retirement allowance for disability resulting from participation in 9/11 World Trade Center rescue, recovery, or cleanup options.
Permits any member of PERS to receive accidental disability retirement allowance for disability resulting from participation in 9/11 World Trade Center rescue, recovery, or cleanup options.
Permits any member of PERS to receive accidental disability retirement allowance for disability resulting from participation in 9/11 World Trade Center rescue, recovery, or cleanup options.
Provides for filing extension and alternate medical documentation in PFRS, SPRS, or PERS for accidental disability retirement in certain circumstances; extends accidental death benefit for survivors of certain SPRS retirees.
Permits application for PERS accidental disability benefit for injury sustained after January 2003 while employed at State psychiatric institution or correctional facility immediately prior to PERS membership.
Permits application for PERS accidental disability benefit for injury sustained after January 2003 while employed at State psychiatric institution or correctional facility immediately prior to PERS membership.
Permits application for PERS accidental disability benefit for injury sustained after January 2003 while employed at State psychiatric institution or correctional facility immediately prior to PERS membership.