Bill > A3015

This bill amends existing law to allow certain State employees to apply for an accidental disability benefit through the Public Employees' Retirement System (PERS), even if their disabling injury occurred immediately before they officially became a PERS member. Specifically, it covers traumatic events that happen while an employee is working in roles like doctor, nurse, healthcare worker, social worker, or correction officer at a State psychiatric institution or correctional facility, caring for or guarding incarcerated individuals. This provision applies if the employee becomes a PERS member without any break in service immediately after the injury. The bill also clarifies that a traumatic event occurring during voluntary performance of duties, as long as it doesn't violate work rules, is considered part of regular duties. The bill takes effect immediately and is retroactive to January 1, 2003.