In an important push for recognition and support, the New Jersey State Firefighters Mutual Benevolent Association (NJFMBA) is leading efforts to designate Emergency Medical Services (EMS) as an essential service in the state. This designation would bring much-needed benefits and protections to EMS professionals who provide critical life-saving care daily.

Currently, New Jersey law only recognizes police, fire, and sanitation as essential services. This oversight means EMS departments often struggle with funding, staffing, and resources despite their crucial role in public safety. As FMBA EMS Committee Chair Steve Spurr noted at the March 2025 meeting, "This is common sense. EMS should be considered essential service."

The health and management of the Police and Firemen's Retirement System (PFRS) continues to be a top priority for New Jersey's first responders. At the March 2025 NJFMBA meeting, PFRS representative Matt Lubin provided a comprehensive update on the pension system's status and future direction.

Perhaps the most encouraging news is the improvement in the PFRS funded ratio, which has increased to 72.0% for the local plan, up from 71.5% previously. While the state plan remains significantly lower at 42.2% (up from 41%), both are moving in the positive direction. This discrepancy reflects the legacy of years when the state failed to make required contributions, creating a substantial funding gap that is only gradually being addressed.

A significant legislative victory for retired firefighters is making a real difference in their financial lives. The Social Security Fairness Act, strongly supported by the New Jersey State Firefighters Mutual Benevolent Association (NJFMBA), has resulted in substantial retroactive payments and increased monthly benefits for retirees.

During the March 2025 NJFMBA meeting, President Ed Donnelly highlighted the impact of this legislation, noting that Local 500 retirees had begun receiving retroactive checks. "This was a life-changing piece of legislation for our members," Donnelly remarked. "The monthly check increases are life-changing."

But what exactly is the Social Security Fairness Act, and why is it so important?