Both NJ Parties Seek to Rein in Disability Claims

New Jersey lawmakers in both parties are looking for solutions to a recent increase in police disability pensions.

A New Jersey Press Media story found that accidental disability awards have increased since two Supreme Court rulings, in 2007 and 2008, loosened requirements.

The awards can pay police and firefighters two-thirds of their salary tax-free for life, regardless of how long they've served. State Republicans have proposed reducing that to 40 percent of salary. They've also suggested requiring additional medical reviews.

Democrats have proposed a bill that would require annual medical exams.

A representative of the New Jersey Policeman's Benevolent Association says the solution is to give the state pension board greater authority to deny questionable claims.

(Copyright 2011 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)