New Jersey lawmakers pass legislation to protect immigrants
WHYY • • nation
Key Points:
- New Jersey lawmakers passed three bills aimed at strengthening public trust and safety in immigrant communities, protecting them from ICE raids, pending Gov. Phil Murphy's signature before he leaves office on Jan. 20.
- The Safe Communities Act mandates state agencies to adopt policies limiting federal immigration enforcement at sensitive locations, while the Privacy Protection Act restricts data sharing to encourage immigrants to seek services without fear.
- A third bill codifies the Immigrant Trust Directive, limiting state law enforcement's cooperation with federal immigration authorities to foster trust and protect community members from deportation fears.
- Immigrant rights groups praised the legislation as a victory against mass detention and deportation, emphasizing its role in keeping families together and ensuring access to essential services.
- Some Republicans opposed the bills
