This bill amends R.S.34:15-75 to ensure that certain volunteer and other workers, such as firefighters, first aid or rescue squad workers, and emergency management volunteers, receive the maximum workers' compensation benefits for injuries or deaths incurred while performing their duties. The bill specifies that these benefits will be granted regardless of the individual's outside employment status at the time of the incident. Additionally, it eliminates the seven-day waiting period for these claims, allowing for immediate compensation.

The legislation is a response to the New Jersey Supreme Court case Kocanowski v. Twp. of Bridgewater, which clarified the intent of the Legislature regarding compensation for volunteer firefighters. The bill aims to remove any ambiguity in the current law concerning the workers' compensation entitlements of these individuals, ensuring they receive the maximum benefits available without consideration of their other employment.