N.J. Stat. § 43:13-22.51
In each city, as defined in this act, an employees' retirement system shall be and is hereby created, set apart, maintained and administered in the manner prescribed in this act, for the benefit of employees of such city and the widows, widowers, minor children and dependent parents of such employees; and also of all contributors to, participants in, and beneficiaries of any pension fund in operation in such city, at the time of the effective date of this act, under and by virtue of article 2, chapter 13, Title 43 of the Revised Statutes. The retirement system so created shall have the powers and privileges of a corporation and in no event shall be liable for the payment of any pension or other benefits payable on account of members or their dependents for which reserves have not been previously created from funds contributed by the city or by the members for such benefits.
N.J.S. § 43:13-22.51