This bill allows members of the Police and Firemen's Retirement System (PFRS) to purchase credit for their service as class two special law enforcement officers with public employers in New Jersey, provided that this service occurred before they became PFRS members. Members can purchase credit for up to 10 years of such service, and the purchase process will mirror that of acquiring credit for federal employment or military service, with the member responsible for both their share and the employer's share of the costs. Additionally, the bill stipulates that the break between the service as a class two special law enforcement officer and the appointment to a PFRS-covered position must be less than 120 days. Members enrolled in the retirement system on the bill's effective date will have one year to apply for this purchase.
The bill also includes specific provisions regarding the purchase of credit, stating that no application will be accepted if the member has a vested right to retirement benefits in another system based on that service. Furthermore, it clarifies that the employer of a member applying to purchase this credit will not be liable for any payments to the retirement system on the member's behalf. The bill aims to recognize the service of class two special law enforcement officers and provide them with an opportunity to enhance their retirement benefits through the PFRS.
Statutes affected: Introduced: 43:16A-11.11