This bill amends the New Jersey small employer health benefits plan statutes to include volunteer firefighters and other emergency responders as part of the eligible employee group for municipalities. Specifically, it inserts language defining "eligible employee" to encompass members of volunteer fire companies and incorporated volunteer first aid, emergency, rescue, or ambulance squads who provide services throughout the municipality and are eligible for benefits under specific state statutes. Additionally, the bill clarifies that when determining the size of an employer, these volunteers will not be counted as employees.

The legislation aims to resolve a conflict between existing laws that allow municipalities to offer group health insurance benefits to volunteer firefighters and emergency responders, and the current definitions under the small employer health benefits plan statutes that exclude them from being considered eligible employees. By including these volunteers in the eligible employee group, the bill ensures they can receive health coverage under the same group plans available to other municipal employees, thereby enhancing their access to necessary health benefits. The act is set to take effect immediately upon passage.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 17B:27A-17