Bill > A5507

This bill establishes a presumption in the Public Employees' Retirement System (PERS) and the Police and Firemen's Retirement System (PFRS) that emergency medical technicians, firefighters, and police officers who develop Parkinson's disease have contracted the condition as a direct result of their employment. Specifically, the bill allows these public safety workers to receive an accidental disability retirement pension if they are diagnosed with Parkinson's disease and can prove they did not have the condition prior to enrolling in the retirement system, as demonstrated by passing a physical examination before enrollment. The presumption means that the permanent and total disability resulting from Parkinson's disease will be considered to have occurred during the performance of their regular or assigned duties and not due to the member's willful negligence, unless contrary evidence can be presented. This legislation aims to provide additional protection and support for first responders and emergency medical personnel who may develop serious health conditions as a consequence of their challenging and potentially hazardous work environments.

Government Affairs

https://www.njleg.state.nj.us/bill-search/2024/A5507