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 that provide services throughout the municipality. This change aims to resolve a conflict between existing laws that allow municipalities to offer group health insurance benefits to these volunteers and the current definition of eligible employees under small employer health benefits plans.

Additionally, the bill clarifies that when determining the size of an employer, members of these volunteer organizations will not be counted as employees. This ensures that municipalities can provide health benefits to their volunteer emergency responders without affecting their classification as small employers. The bill is designed to enhance the support and coverage available to those who serve in these critical roles within their communities.

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