The bill would have required the employer to challenge any work-related injuries and illness, shifting the burden away from nurses, firefighters, police officers, rescue squad members and other first responders who have to prove how and when they were hurt or sickened under the current system.
Wages and medical benefits would be paid if "any death or disability, including post traumatic stress disorder, arises from the physical or psychological impact of stress or injury experienced by the public safety worker during response to a terrorist attack, epidemic or other catastrophic emergency," according to the bill sponsored by Sen. Linda Greenstein (D-Middlesex).
Christie said while the state is grateful for the heroic work of its first responders, New Jersey can't afford this legislation.
"The costs associated with the injuries those duties may cause must be administered in a responsible manner that matches our public resources," Christie said in a statement when he vetoed the bill a month ago. "Although this measure would likely have a significant impact on State, local, and municipal government budgets, the bill’s...
