The New Jersey Immigrant Trust Act is designed to enhance protections for immigrants interacting with government agencies, ensuring their safety and constitutional rights regardless of immigration status. The bill emphasizes that the enforcement of federal immigration law is a federal responsibility and should not interfere with local public safety priorities. It prohibits state, county, and municipal law enforcement agencies from inquiring about an individual's immigration status or detaining individuals based on civil immigration warrants, which do not meet the same legal standards as criminal warrants. Additionally, the act mandates that government entities and healthcare facilities can only collect immigration-related information when strictly necessary for assessing eligibility for services.
The bill establishes a framework for state and local government entities regarding their involvement with federal immigration enforcement, prohibiting actions that assist federal authorities, such as participating in civil immigration enforcement operations or sharing personal information. Any conflicting agreements or practices prior to the act's effective date will be rendered void. The Attorney General is tasked with developing training for law enforcement and model policies for sensitive locations, ensuring that eligible individuals feel safe seeking services. The act also requires law enforcement agencies to report their interactions with immigration authorities and emphasizes the protection of personal information, allowing its collection only when necessary and restricting disclosure unless legally required or with consent. Overall, the New Jersey Immigrant Trust Act aims to foster trust between immigrant communities and public agencies, promoting inclusivity and safeguarding rights.