NJ Public Sector Lawyers And Judges Want Exemption From New Health Care And Pension Regulations
NEW JERSEY (CBS) -- There's a push to exempt New Jersey judges and public sector lawyers from the new requirement that state employees pay more into their pension and health care plans.
The New Jersey State Bar Association recently approved two resolutions urging legislators to repeal the hikes as far as they affect state and county prosecutors and judges in particular.
"Particularly in regards to the judiciary, there is a constitutional provision that says you cannot decrease a judge's salary once the judge goes on the bench," says Association President Susan Feeney.
This is precisely the case made in a lawsuit filed this week against the state by a Hudson County judge. But Feeney's argument goes beyond the state constitution—she suggests lawyers can earn a lot more money in private practice and make a sacrifice to work in the public sector. Hit them with higher health care and pension contributions, and many may opt out of public service altogether.
Reported by David Madden, KYW Newsradio
