TRENTON, N.J. – Assemblyman Alex Sauickie is spearheading the charge to boost pension benefits for police and firefighters who are disabled or killed on duty by a weapon.

His bill (A1259), first introduced in February 2022 and co-sponsored by Assemblyman Bill Spearman (D-Camden), raises pensions for permanently disabled Police and Firemen’s Retirement System members from 66% to 100% of their final salary, with an adjustment to 80% at the age of mandatory retirement.

“Our first responders risk everything for us. When tragedy strikes, families deserve complete support,” said Sauickie (R-Ocean). “This bill ensures that the pension benefits reflect the incredible sacrifices these heroes make.”

Survivor benefits also increase from 70% to 75%, with income growth continuing until age 65, guaranteeing that their family does not fall behind financially.

“This is a bipartisan issue as it should be,” said Sauickie. He said that while similar proposals have been submitted, those lack critical survivor benefits.

“There’s no question we need to support our first responders, but it’s unacceptable to leave their families out of the equation,” says Sauickie. “This makes sure that when tragedy strikes, the families of our heroes aren’t left struggling.”

Sen. Joe Cryan (D-Union) is sponsoring the Senate version of the bill.