ACLU-NJ, Partners Respond to US v. Newark Ruling in Support of Community Trust Policies

NEWARK – Today U.S. District Court Judge Evelyn Padin issued an opinion in U.S. v. Newark dismissing the federal government’s lawsuit against four New Jersey cities – Newark, Paterson, Jersey City, and Hoboken – over their Community Trust Policies, which limit voluntary collaboration between municipal agencies and federal civil immigration enforcement.

The ACLU-NJ filed a friend-of-the-court brief on behalf of 30 community organizations in support of the Community Trust Policies, arguing that these policies promote the safety, health, and welfare of all City residents, regardless of immigration status.

“This dismissal is a win for New Jersey communities and for the rule of law,” said Amol Sinha, executive director of the ACLU of New Jersey. “Community trust policies help people access public services without fear of family separation, which improves well-being for everyone. Public safety is strengthened when people can report crimes, and public health is improved when people can seek medical care. New Jersey and its cities have every right to invest in policies that support the welfare of our communities.”

“The court's dismissal sends a powerful message: the federal government cannot weaponize the courts to force local communities to carry out its political agenda,” said Marcia Johnson, chief of activation and justice for the League of Women Voters. “This lawsuit was an attempt to undermine policies that help build trust between residents and local institutions, particularly in immigrant communities. Today's decision affirms that cities can prioritize public safety, protect community trust, and govern in the best interests of their residents without federal intimidation. The League of Women Voters welcomes this outcome and remains committed to defending the dignity, rights, and voices of all people in our democracy.”

“This ruling is a victory for the people of New Jersey,” said Jesse Burns, executive director for the League of Women Voters of New Jersey. “Alongside our partners, the League of Women Voters is determined to stand with and up for our neighbors. No individual should fear being targeted in their community and everyone should feel confident and safe interacting with their local government.”

“This decision reaffirms what we already knew; New Jersey's local leaders are best equipped to enact policies that affect our children,” said Alma Godinez, senior attorney of the New Jersey Consortium for Immigrant Children. “As the cities of Newark, Jersey City, Paterson, and Hoboken have shown, by limiting the use of local resources for immigration enforcement, our local communities are stronger, and our children can thrive. This ruling reassures New Jersey's children they can trust their local government institutions, feel safe and secure in their schools, health care facilities, and when utilizing vital government resources.”