WeVote
Log In

Bill

RB

Bill

A 5198

Concerns valuation of board and lodging with respect to workers' compensation.

2024-2025 Regular Session Introduced by Rosy Bagolie and 3 co-sponsors

New Jersey bill establishes valuation standards for room-and-board compensation in workers' compensation claims, affecting benefit calculations for affected workers and employer liability.

Reported and Referred to Assembly Appropriations Committee
#workerscomp
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · A 5198

Legislative bill overview

Assembly Bill A 5198 addresses how room and board provided to workers should be valued for workers' compensation purposes in New Jersey. The bill clarifies or modifies the methodology used to determine the monetary worth of lodging and meals when these are provided as part of worker compensation or benefit calculations. This affects how employers and insurers calculate total compensation packages for injured or eligible workers.

Why is this important

Workers' compensation systems must accurately value all forms of compensation—not just wages—to ensure workers receive appropriate benefits. The valuation of board and lodging directly impacts benefit calculations for workers receiving in-kind compensation rather than cash, and could affect dispute resolution between employers, insurers, and workers regarding what constitutes fair compensation value.

Potential points of contention

  • Valuation methodology: Whether fair market value, actual cost to employer, or a standardized rate should determine compensation value, affecting how much workers receive or what employers must pay
  • Scope of coverage: Uncertainty about which workers qualify (seasonal, temporary, permanent employees) and whether certain housing arrangements are included
  • Implementation costs: Potential fiscal impact on employers, insurance carriers, and the state workers' compensation system depending on how valuations are adjusted

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

Sign in to ask a question.