New Jersey Senate Bill S3441

New Jersey 2024-2025 Regular Session

• Introduced: 6/13/24
• Refer: 6/13/24

Caption

Establishes survivor support liaison in Department of Treasury to assist beneficiaries of emergency responders who die in line of duty; "designated as Captain Augusto Acabou's, Wayne Brooks', and Plainfield Firefighter Marques Hudson's act"; appropriates $1,000,000.

Impact

The bill has significant implications for state laws concerning the support of emergency responders and their families. By creating a dedicated office for survivor support, the state acknowledges the sacrifices made by these individuals and aims to streamline the process for their beneficiaries in accessing benefits. The appropriation of $1,000,000 from the General Fund to support the activities of this office reinforces the state's commitment to the families of those who have lost their lives in the line of duty.

Summary

Bill S3441 establishes the Office of Emergency Responder Survivor Support and Navigation within the Department of Treasury in New Jersey. Its primary function is to assist beneficiaries of emergency responders who have died in the line of duty by providing them with information regarding available benefits. The office will be led by a survivor support liaison and will also include at least three additional employees who are beneficiaries of such responders. This setup aims to ensure that the individuals affected by the loss of emergency responders receive necessary guidance and support during a difficult time.

Contention

While the bill is largely supportive of emergency responders, there may be concerns surrounding the allocation of resources and whether the establishment of a new office is the most effective way to provide support. Some stakeholders may question the efficiency of remotely operated offices versus physical locations, while others might debate the adequacy of the proposed budget in meeting the needs of all beneficiaries. Nonetheless, the bill's designation honors specific fallen responders, aiming to raise awareness and highlight the importance of support for families affected by such losses.