This bill amends the New Jersey workers' compensation law regarding the valuation of board and lodging provided by employers. Currently, such benefits are valued at a fixed rate of $25 per week unless a different amount is established at the time of hiring. The proposed changes will allow the value of board and lodging to be determined at market value, unless otherwise agreed upon by the parties involved at the time of hiring. Additionally, if a claimant continues to receive board or lodging during a period of total temporary disability, this value will not be included in the calculation of the workers' compensation rate for temporary total disability.

The bill aims to modernize the approach to calculating benefits related to board and lodging, ensuring that the valuation reflects current market conditions rather than a fixed amount. This change is intended to provide a more equitable assessment of benefits for workers who receive such accommodations from their employers. The act is set to take effect immediately upon passage.