The bill revises the definition of "child" within the Police and Firemen's Retirement System (PFRS) and the State Police Retirement System (SPRS) in New Jersey. The updated definition now includes unmarried children of a deceased member or retirant who are under 18, those aged 18 or older and enrolled in secondary school, and those under 24 enrolled in a degree program for at least 12 credit hours per semester. Additionally, it encompasses children of any age who are disabled due to an intellectual or physical impairment lasting a minimum of 12 months, as confirmed by a medical board.

Significantly, the bill eliminates the previous requirement that the deceased member must have died in active service due to an accident and not as a result of willful misconduct. This amendment broadens the eligibility criteria for benefits, allowing a greater number of children of deceased members or retirants to receive support, regardless of the circumstances surrounding the member's death. The changes aim to enhance the benefits available to families affected by the loss of a police officer or firefighter, ensuring that more children can access necessary financial assistance during their educational endeavors.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 43:16A-1, 53:5A-3