NJ A4617

Creates annual cost-of-living adjustments (COLA) for workers' compensation benefits for workers who became totally and permanently disabled or dependents of workers who died from workplace injuries after December 31, 1979, effective July 1, 2026.

Phases in supplemental benefits at 33⅓% in fiscal year 2027, 66⅔% in fiscal year 2028, and 100% from fiscal year 2029 onward to avoid abrupt fiscal impact.

Funds the COLA portion of supplemental benefits from the state General Fund rather than through employer assessments to the Second Injury Fund.

Reduces supplemental benefits to prevent overlap with Social Security disability benefits, Black Lung benefits, or employer disability pension payments, and disqualifies individuals who elect not to receive eligible Social Security benefits.

Requires insurance carriers and self-insured employers to notify the Division of Workers' Compensation within 60 days when supplemental benefits are required, with liability transferring to them if failure to notify causes incorrect payment amounts.