The New Jersey Immigrant Trust Act seeks to enhance protections for immigrants by establishing clear guidelines for government entities and healthcare facilities regarding the collection and sharing of immigration status information. The Act stipulates that such information can only be collected when necessary for assessing eligibility for public services and ensures that records related to immigration status are not classified as governmental records under the Open Public Records Act, with certain exceptions for election-related disclosures. Additionally, it mandates that government entities update their confidentiality policies to align with these new provisions.

The Act also prohibits law enforcement agencies from engaging in practices that may discourage individuals from seeking services due to their immigration status, such as stopping or detaining individuals based on suspected immigration violations. It requires the Attorney General to develop model policies for sensitive locations, like schools and healthcare facilities, to maintain accessibility for all residents. Furthermore, law enforcement agencies must report their interactions with immigration authorities, including detainer requests, to the Attorney General, who will publish this information annually. The bill emphasizes the protection of personal information, allowing its collection only when necessary and restricting disclosure unless legally required or with consent, while also mandating training for law enforcement and public awareness campaigns to inform immigrant communities of their rights.