It may be end of the line for Atlantic City lifeguard pensions

New Jersey lawmakers have introduced a bill that would no longer require Atlantic City and other local governments to have a pension system for retired lifeguards.

The Press of Atlantic City reported the bill sponsored by Senate President Steve Sweeney and Sen. Kevin O’Toole would allow communities with lifeguard pension systems to end enrollment or terminate the fund. If the fund is eliminated, retired lifeguards wouldn’t forfeit payments they’ve already received.

Atlantic City is one of nine area coastal communities required by a 1920s state law to have the pension system. The financially beleaguered resort city pays more than $1 million to its retired lifeguards each year.

Mayor Don Guardian said the bill will be used as “one more tool” to help bring down costs in Atlantic City.