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Bill

S 351

Establishes presumption for accidental disability retirement in PERS and PFRS that emergency medical technician, firefighter, and police officer has Parkinson's disease as result of employment.

2026-2027 Regular Session Introduced by Doug Steinhardt

New Jersey law presumes Parkinson's disease in firefighters, EMTs, and police is job-caused for disability retirement benefits eligibility.

Introduced in the Senate, Referred to Senate State Government, Wagering, Tourism & Historic Preservation Committee
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Bill Summary · S 351

Legislative bill overview

S 351 creates a legal presumption that Parkinson's disease in emergency medical technicians, firefighters, and police officers is work-related for purposes of accidental disability retirement benefits under New Jersey's Public Employees' Retirement System (PERS) and Police and Firemen's Retirement System (PFRS). This means affected workers would not need to prove causation; the disease would be presumed occupational unless evidence suggests otherwise.

Why is this important

Parkinson's disease diagnosis can be financially devastating for public safety workers, often occurring before traditional retirement age and ending careers. By establishing a presumption of work-relatedness, the bill would make it substantially easier for affected workers to access disability retirement benefits, potentially securing pension income and medical coverage during what could be decades of illness.

Potential points of contention

  • Fiscal impact on pension systems: Presumptive disability claims increase costs to PERS and PFRS, potentially affecting contribution rates for municipalities and all enrolled members
  • Scientific causation debate: Medical evidence on occupational links to Parkinson's in first responders is developing but not definitively established; critics may argue the presumption overreaches current science
  • Scope concerns: The bill covers three specific professions; advocates for other occupational groups may seek similar presumptions, expanding fiscal obligations

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

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