This bill amends existing law to allow members of the State Police Retirement System (SPRS) to purchase service credit for time spent enrolled in military service academies and the New Jersey State Police Academy, as well as for employment as a class two special law enforcement officer. Specifically, it introduces provisions that enable members to purchase credit for service rendered while enrolled in these academies or employed as special law enforcement officers, provided that the service led directly to their enrollment in the retirement system. The bill stipulates that the purchase of such credit must be made through payments into the annuity savings fund, with specific conditions regarding the duration of service and the timing of the purchase.

Additionally, the bill modifies the existing provisions related to military service credit by including periods of enrollment in military service academies that resulted in a baccalaureate degree. It clarifies that members can purchase credit for military service, including academy time, and outlines the payment structure for these purchases. The bill also ensures that members who retire before completing their payments will receive pro rata credit for the service purchased prior to retirement, with an option to make a lump sum payment at that time for full credit. Overall, the bill aims to enhance the retirement benefits for members of the SPRS by recognizing their service in military and law enforcement training.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 53:5A-6, 53:5A-6.1
Reprint: 53:5A-6, 53:5A-6.1