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Bill

Bill

A 5091

Increases PFRS accidental disability pension when disability is caused by weapon.

2024-2025 Regular Session Introduced by Joe Danielsen and 1 co-sponsor

New Jersey increases accidental disability pension benefits for public employees injured by weapons in the line of duty, raising long-term pension costs.

Introduced in the Assembly, Referred to Assembly State and Local Government Committee
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Bill Summary · A 5091

Legislative bill overview

Bill A 5091 modifies New Jersey's Public Employees' Retirement System (PFERS) to increase accidental disability pension benefits specifically when a disability results from a weapon-related incident. The bill targets public employees, particularly first responders, who suffer weapon-caused injuries in the line of duty.

Why is this important

This directly affects compensation for injured public employees and establishes different benefit levels based on injury cause. It reflects policy decisions about how to value different types of on-the-job injuries and could influence recruitment/retention in high-risk public service positions while impacting state pension fund obligations.

Potential points of contention

  • Fiscal impact: Increased pension payouts require clarification on cost estimates and how this affects the PFERS fund's long-term solvency and contribution rates
  • Definitional scope: The bill's language around "caused by weapon" needs clarity—does this include all weapons, only firearms, accidental vs. intentional use, and injuries from suspects' weapons vs. officer equipment?
  • Equity concerns: Creating enhanced benefits based on injury type may raise questions about fairness to employees disabled by other causes (vehicular accidents, environmental hazards, assault without weapons)

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

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