Research & Publications

As New Jersey’s top elected leader, Governor Mikie Sherrill has a responsibility to safeguard and advance civil rights and liberties, and fight against federal abuses of power. The people of New Jersey expect and deserve a governor with a strong, demonstrated commitment to a fair and equitable state where the rights of all are defended and protected. Policy decisions made by the Sherrill administration will shape the lives of all New Jerseyans, and the future of our state, for generations to come. To build a fairer future for all, the ACLU of New Jersey encourages Governor Sherrill to prioritize the following list of policy recommendations throughout her tenure. Though inexhaustive, these areas of focus provide a series of integral guiding principles for the Governor and her cabinet. If pursued, these priorities will help ensure that New Jersey is a safer, freer, more welcoming, and more affordable state for all.

The report estimates a potential return of $2.30 to $3.14 for every dollar invested in New Jersey to provide a right to counsel in eviction proceedings.

"Policing the Pandemic: COVID-19 and Lockdown Enforcement in New Jersey" examines how policing practices and applications of COVID-19 related government restrictions and regulations had a disproportionate impact on communities of color across New Jersey.

Decarcerating New Jersey: A Transformative Vision of Justice includes newly acquired statewide data on incarceration and policy recommendations that can serve as a national model for decarceration.

A majority of local departments provided inaccurate information in response to the most basic questions regarding individuals’ rights to file IA complaints.