This bill mandates that parties involved in arbitration hearings related to personal injury protection benefits must be represented by an attorney licensed to practice law in New Jersey, and the attorney must be retained at the party's own expense. This requirement is specifically applicable to arbitration proceedings concerning claims established by section 24 of P.L.1998, c.21 (C.39:6A-5.1). However, the bill includes an exception for pro se litigants, allowing individuals to represent themselves without the need for an attorney.

The act is set to take effect 90 days after its enactment and will apply to arbitration hearings initiated on or after that date. This legislation aims to ensure that parties in these arbitration proceedings have professional legal representation, thereby potentially improving the fairness and effectiveness of the arbitration process.