Trenton, NJ — New Jersey lawmakers have introduced legislation that would formally give the State Police superintendent the rank of colonel while allowing retired troopers to return as superintendent without reenrolling in the State Police Retirement System.
The bill, sponsored by Senators Linda Greenstein and Nicholas Scutari, comes as state officials continue evaluating leadership and staffing structures within the New Jersey State Police.
If approved, the measure would also lock in a $210,000 salary for the superintendent position and require the appointee to maintain law enforcement licensing and State Police certification standards.
Bill Creates Path for Retired Troopers to Return as Superintendent
Under current law, questions can arise regarding pension reenrollment when retired law enforcement officials return to public employment.
The proposed legislation would specifically allow a retiree from the State Police Retirement System to serve as superintendent without reenrolling in the pension system, provided the retirement involved a legitimate separation from service and was not prearranged.
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The bill also states that salary earned while serving as superintendent would not increase or enhance the retiree’s pension benefits.
Supporters say the change would expand the pool of experienced candidates available to lead the agency, particularly former high-ranking troopers with decades of institutional knowledge.
Key Points
• New Jersey lawmakers introduced a bill allowing retired troopers to serve as State Police superintendent without pension reenrollment.
• The legislation formally establishes the superintendent’s rank as colonel within the State Police.
• The bill also sets the superintendent’s salary at $210,000 and requires active law enforcement credentials.
Superintendent Would Officially Hold Rank of Colonel
The legislation amends existing state law to formally establish that the superintendent “shall hold the uniformed rank of Colonel of the State Police and be entitled to wear the corresponding uniform.”
The measure would also grant the superintendent all powers and privileges currently afforded to State Police members under New Jersey law.
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Additionally, the superintendent would continue serving as the State Director of Emergency Management, a role traditionally handled by the State Police leader during statewide emergencies and disaster responses.
To qualify for the position, candidates would need to complete, update, or renew State Police Academy certification requirements and obtain law enforcement licensing under New Jersey’s police licensing law enacted in 2022.
Bill Awaits Action in State Legislature
The proposal was introduced with additional support from Senators Patrick Diegnan and Vin Gopal.
Lawmakers have not yet announced committee hearing dates or voting schedules for the measure.
The bill would take effect immediately if passed by the Legislature and signed into law by the governor.
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