In response to U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) potentially seeking to open a new detention facility within New Jersey, Assemblyman Gordon Johnson (D-Bergen) announced his plan to introduce legislation that would prohibit contract renewals and new ICE facilities in the state.
“Many advocates and residents throughout our state have voiced their opposition to the detainment of immigrants,” said Assemblyman Johnson. “We must listen to the people of our state who are calling for an end to ICE contracts in New Jersey.”
Under his proposed bill, correctional facilities would be prohibited from entering into a new contract or renewing/expanding an existing contract for the detainment of immigrants in New Jersey.
“The outrage and hurt many New Jerseyans are feeling right now is both understandable and warranted – I feel it too,” said Johnson. “Over the past several years, we have heard story after story of human rights atrocities committed in ICE facilities.”
Other lawmakers including U.S. Senators Bob Menendez and Cory Booker have also spoken out against New Jersey counties making agreements with ICE.
“New Jersey is a state that stands for justice and equality, and ICE’s actions do not align with those values. We must put an end to ICE detainment in our state,” said Johnson.
If signed into law, the bill would take effect immediately.