The bill amends New Jersey law to require that Administrative Law Judges (ALJs) be enrolled in the Workers Compensation Judges Part of the Public Employees' Retirement System (PERS), replacing their current participation in the Defined Contribution Retirement Program (DCRP). It specifies that ALJs currently in the DCRP will be transferred to the new retirement system within 90 days of the bill's effective date, ensuring they receive service credit for their time in the DCRP. The bill also addresses the management of unfunded liabilities associated with these benefits, mandating that they be covered by appropriations from the State General Fund.

Additionally, the bill introduces new definitions and clarifications regarding the roles and eligibility of judges within the retirement system, including provisions for survivor benefits, retirement allowances, and the option for judges to purchase credit for previous service. These changes aim to align the retirement benefits of ALJs with those of workers' compensation judges, ensuring equitable treatment and financial security for both groups. The act is set to take effect immediately upon passage.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 43:15C-2, 43:15A-7, 43:15A-142, 43:15A-143, 43:15A-144, 43:15A-145, 43:15A-146, 43:15A-147, 43:15A-148, 43:15A-149, 43:15A-150, 43:15A-151, 43:15A-152, 43:15A-153, 43:15A-154