NJ High Court to Rule on Judge’s Pension Challenge

New Jersey's Supreme Court is expected to rule Tuesday on a challenge to a law that requires judges to contribute more to their pensions and health insurance.

The high court heard arguments on the controversy in March. The challenge was brought last year by Hudson County Superior Court Judge Paul DePascale. He argues that the measure violates a state law that set judges' salaries and says they cannot be reduced.

The state says the constitutional ban on reducing judges' salaries while they're on the bench does not include other compensation, such as pension and health benefits.

Legislation requiring higher pension and health insurance contributions from about 500,000 government employees also has been challenged by unions representing police, firefighters, public workers and teachers.

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