Bill > AR106

This resolution urges Congress to pass the Military Surviving Spouses Equity Act, which addresses an unfair benefit offset affecting military survivors. Currently, when a military member dies from a service-connected cause, surviving spouses receive Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC) from the Department of Veterans Affairs, but they are required to forfeit an equivalent amount from their Survivor Benefit Plan (SBP) annuity. This means that for every dollar received in DIC, a dollar is subtracted from the SBP, effectively canceling out the intended financial support. In fiscal year 2017, this offset meant survivors lost approximately $1,258 per month, with only a modest $310 monthly rebate (Special Survivor Indemnity Allowance) offered as compensation. The resolution highlights that the Veterans Disability Benefits Commission previously recommended that DIC should be paid in addition to, not subtracted from, the SBP annuity. The proposed Act would repeal the offset for survivors under 60 years old, prohibit requiring repayment of previously paid benefits, and ensure dependent children receive compensation when no surviving spouse is eligible. The resolution emphasizes that military personnel who risk their lives defending the nation should be able to trust that the benefits they designate for their families will be fully provided.

Military Affairs and Security

https://www.njleg.state.nj.us/bill-search/2024/AR106