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A 3134

Permits reimbursement of COBRA health benefit costs of survivors of certain deceased public safety employees; appropriates $750,000.

2024-2025 Regular Session Introduced by Michele Matsikoudis and 1 co-sponsor

New Jersey bill authorizes $750,000 to reimburse COBRA health insurance costs for surviving families of deceased public safety employees.

Introduced in the Assembly, Referred to Assembly Labor Committee
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Bill Summary · A 3134

Legislative bill overview

Bill A 3134 would authorize New Jersey to reimburse COBRA health insurance costs for surviving family members of deceased public safety employees (such as police officers and firefighters). The bill appropriates $750,000 to cover these reimbursements, helping surviving spouses and dependents maintain health coverage after losing their breadwinner.

Why is this important

Public safety employees face elevated occupational risks, and their families often face financial hardship after a line-of-duty or service-related death. COBRA continuation coverage is expensive but necessary to bridge the gap to alternative insurance; this reimbursement would ease a significant financial burden during an already traumatic period. The measure acknowledges the state's obligation to support families of those who died in public service.

Potential points of contention

  • Scope and eligibility: Unclear whether coverage applies only to line-of-duty deaths or all deceased public safety employees, and what timeline limits exist for reimbursement claims
  • Cost sustainability: $750,000 may be insufficient if multiple claims arise, raising questions about adequate appropriation levels and ongoing funding
  • Definitional issues: The bill doesn't specify which public safety roles qualify (police, fire, corrections, emergency medical personnel, etc.), potentially creating disputes over coverage eligibility

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

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