This morning, Governor Sherrill signed a package of bills, including the Privacy Protection Act and the codification of the Immigrant Trust Directive, that strengthen protections for immigrant communities across New Jersey.
In response, New Jersey Policy Perspective (NJPP) issues the following statement:
Marleina Ubel, Senior Policy Analyst, NJPP:
“These measures mark an important step forward in a long and complex effort to uphold the rights and dignity of all New Jerseyans.
“Immigrants make up one in four residents of our state and are integral to our communities, families, and economy. At a time when federal policies continue to pose real risks — including family separation and threats to personal safety — state leaders have a responsibility to act decisively to protect residents and maintain trust in public institutions.
“We’re especially encouraged to see the inclusion of data privacy protections — an approach NJPP has long championed as part of this effort, including our work to highlight the risks of unchecked surveillance.
“At the same time, these measures reflect a more limited approach than what many advocates and communities have long called for. Key gaps remain, including the continued sharing of sensitive data, such as license plate reader information, with federal agencies. Addressing these issues will be essential to ensuring that protections are truly comprehensive and meaningful in practice.
“NJPP welcomes today’s progress and appreciates the administration’s leadership in moving this effort forward. We remain committed to working with state leaders and partners to build on this foundation and advance stronger, more inclusive safeguards for everyone who calls the Garden State home.”
