The bill proposes to raise the mandatory retirement age for members of the New Jersey State Police Retirement System (SPRS) from 55 to 60 years, recognizing that age significantly impacts fitness for duty. The new legal language establishes that retirement at age 60 is a bona fide occupational qualification necessary for the normal operation of the State Police. Additionally, the bill modifies provisions related to disability retirement allowances, allowing members under 60 years of age to apply for ordinary disability retirement after four years of creditable service, rather than the previous limit of under 55. It also ensures that beneficiaries of members retiring at the new age threshold will receive half of the member's final compensation.

Furthermore, the bill amends Section 28 of P.L.1965, c. 89 (C.53:5A-28) to allow members with 10 years of creditable service to choose retirement benefits at either age 55 or 60, depending on their separation date. It specifies that if a member dies after reaching the new retirement age but before filing for benefits, their beneficiary will receive a payment equal to half of the member's final compensation. The bill also includes provisions for members who elect a deferred retirement allowance and later return to employment, allowing them to be reenrolled and credited with their previous service. The act is set to take effect immediately upon passage.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 53:5A-8, 53:5A-9, 53:5A-10, 53:5A-28