Immigration bills pulled from Monday’s voting schedule; Assemblyman Paul Kanitra says March 23 likely new date
POINT PLEASANT BEACH, NJ – A blizzard caused Democrats to pull controversial pro-immigration and sanctuary state bills from Monday’s agenda, but it also caused the postponement of that session. Now, those bills are expected to be in front the state legislature for a vote in March.
Republican leaders are planning a protest against the Democrats who are expected to push all of the bills through the process to land them on the desk of Governor Mikie Sherrill.
A rally organized by Assemblyman Paul Kanitra opposing a package of immigration-related bills in the New Jersey General Assembly has been postponed after the State of Emergency forced the cancellation of Monday’s legislative session.
The “Rally to Take Back NJ,” originally scheduled to coincide with the Assembly’s February 23 voting session, will be rescheduled, with March 23 now being eyed as the likely new date, Kanitra said in an update shared over the weekend.
Key Points
- The New Jersey Assembly’s Monday voting session was canceled due to the State of Emergency.
- Assemblyman Paul Kanitra says the immigration bills have been removed from the current board list.
- The “Rally to Take Back NJ” will be rescheduled, likely for March 23.
Immigration bills delayed amid public backlash
Kanitra, a Republican representing District 10, said the Assembly session was postponed, and the controversial immigration protection measures — Assembly Bills A4071, A4070, and A1743 — were pulled from the voting agenda.
The bills, advanced by Assembly Democrats, would limit cooperation between state and local law enforcement and federal immigration authorities, restrict deportation assistance, and tighten access to state-held information about noncitizens.
Supporters argue the measures protect immigrant communities and strengthen trust in local policing, while opponents — including Kanitra — say they shield individuals who entered or remain in the country illegally at the expense of taxpayers.
Bills under protest
1. “F—ICE Act” (A4302/S5038)
Officially titled the Fight Unlawful Conduct and Keep Individuals and Communities Empowered Act, this bill would allow New Jersey residents to sue federal immigration officers for unconstitutional conduct.
Controversy: The bill’s title and confrontational tone toward ICE have sparked criticism from opponents who say it obstructs federal law enforcement.
Provisions: Part of a broader package limiting ICE’s influence in New Jersey, it would also bar ICE agents from future employment with state or local government or public schools.
2. Codification of the Immigrant Trust Directive (S2771)
This measure would make the state’s current Immigrant Trust Directive — which limits cooperation between local police and federal immigration authorities — permanent law.
Purpose: It restricts officers from asking about immigration status or holding individuals for ICE without a judicial warrant.
Controversy: Critics, including some Republicans and police officials, argue it effectively creates a “sanctuary state” and endangers public safety. Immigrant advocates counter that the bill still leaves loopholes for transferring detainees with pending criminal charges to federal custody.
3. Privacy Protection Act (S3522/S5037)
This legislation would prohibit government agencies and healthcare facilities from collecting or sharing personal data such as immigration status, birthplace, or Social Security numbers with federal immigration authorities.
Controversy: Supporters say it protects privacy and encourages all residents to seek healthcare and public services. Opponents argue it hinders legitimate information sharing needed for immigration enforcement.
4. Anti-Masking Bill for Law Enforcement
A pending proposal would ban immigration and other law enforcement officers from wearing masks, face coverings, or gaiters during interactions with the public.
Controversy: The bill also requires officers to display identification. Supporters say it ensures accountability, while police unions warn it could endanger officers and create conflict between state and federal agents.
5. Private Detention Center Tax (A4300)
This bill would levy a 50% tax on the gross profits of privately operated immigration detention centers in New Jersey.
Controversy: Lawmakers describe it as a financial deterrent to discourage for-profit immigration detention in the state, while critics view it as a politically motivated penalty targeting private contractors.
Petition gains traction
Kanitra’s “Vote No — Send Them Home” petition on Change.org has drawn more than 5,000 signatures as of Sunday, reflecting growing grassroots opposition to the bills.
“These measures would make enforcement harder and deepen the burden on law-abiding residents,” Kanitra said. “New Jersey families are already struggling with rising costs and high taxes — this sends exactly the wrong message.”
The Point Pleasant Beach lawmaker urged residents to continue signing the petition and contacting Assembly Speaker Craig Coughlin to oppose the legislation.
A new date for the rally and Assembly vote is expected to be confirmed in the coming weeks.
