This bill amends N.J.S.A.2C:29-3 to introduce criminal penalties for individuals who harbor aliens unlawfully present in the United States, specifically when they are aware that the alien has an outstanding arrest or immigration warrant. The bill establishes that harboring or hindering the apprehension or deportation of such an alien is classified as a crime of the fourth degree. Additionally, it outlines that if an unlawful alien hinders their own apprehension or deportation, they would be guilty of a disorderly persons offense. The bill also includes specific provisions regarding the severity of penalties based on the nature of the offense and the relationship between the actor and the person aided.

Furthermore, the bill introduces an affirmative defense for unlawful aliens who can demonstrate that they were victims of human trafficking at the time they were hindering their own apprehension or deportation. The penalties for a crime of the fourth degree can include imprisonment for up to 18 months and fines up to $10,000, while a disorderly persons offense may result in imprisonment for up to six months and fines up to $1,000. The bill aims to strengthen the legal framework surrounding the apprehension of unlawful aliens and enhance the consequences for those who assist them in evading law enforcement.