KZG Achieves Passage of Legislation Expanding Firefighter Benefit Eligibility
On June 24th, Governor Phil Murphy signed A4745/S3277 into law, increasing the maximum eligibility age for volunteer and professional firefighters to join the New Jersey State Fireman’s Association (NJSFA) from 45 to 57 years of age. This new law will allow firefighters across the state to join the fire service later in life and still earn the necessary qualifications for NJSFA membership.
On behalf of our client, the New Jersey State Firemen’s Association, KZG’s Matt McDermott led and coordinated legislative efforts that ensured the passage and enactment of A4745/S3277. This bill was sponsored by Assembly Members Armato (D-2), Chaparro (D-33) and Danielsen (D-17) and Senators Bucco (R-25), Singleton (D-7) and Doherty (R-23).
Prior to this bill becoming law, firefighters were required to join the fire service between the ages of 18 and 45 to be eligible for membership and access to various benefits.
The age eligibility expansion for NJSFA membership will increase the number of eligible members. Prior to the bill being signed into law, more than 300 career and volunteer firefighters from every county in the state submitted applications for consideration pending the age change. Additional applications are expected with the new law in place. NJSFA includes firefighters from any fire company, department or fire district that is under municipal control in the state. The mission of the Association is to establish and maintain a fund for the relief, support or burial of needy firefighters and their families.
Bill sponsor, Assemblywoman Annette Chaparro said, “Firefighters are integral leaders who work tirelessly to protect the residents of New Jersey and their properties from fires. This law supports these courageous men and women and extends the period in which they can qualify to receive benefits for their public service.”
Benefits available to NJSFA members include burial benefits and relief assistance of up to $12,000 for fully qualified members and their dependents.
In a statement following the signing of the bill, Senator Bucco, a 40-year member and former captain of the Boonton Volunteer Fire Department said, “Communities across our state rely on firefighters to protect lives and property. I am proud of my volunteer service and proud of this new law, which will benefit paid firefighters, as well. It will help bolster the volunteer ranks and better acknowledge the contributions of dedicated firefighters who put the needs of their neighbors above their own.”
