Bill > A5091

This bill increases the accidental disability pension for members of the Police and Firemen's Retirement System (PFRS) who are permanently disabled due to a weapon-related injury in the line of duty. Currently, such members receive a pension of 66 percent of their final compensation, but under this bill, they will receive 100 percent of their final compensation. When the retiree reaches mandatory retirement age, the pension will then be reduced to 80 percent of their final compensation. Additionally, the bill introduces the concept of "adjusted final compensation," which means the pension will continue to increase by the same percentage as compensation adjustments for active members until the retiree would have turned 65, assuming continuous service. The bill defines "weapon" using the definition in New Jersey statutes and allows members who have already retired with an accidental disability or will retire in the future to apply for these enhanced benefits through the PFRS board of trustees. This legislation aims to provide additional financial support for public safety workers who suffer severe, weapon-related injuries while performing their duties.

Government Affairs

https://www.njleg.state.nj.us/bill-search/2024/A5091