Trenton, NJ – In his final act before leaving office, Governor Phil Murphy vetoed two major immigration-related bills Monday, blocking efforts to permanently limit cooperation between New Jersey law enforcement and federal immigration authorities. The move leaves the contentious issue for newly inaugurated Governor Mikie Sherrill to address.
The vetoes, issued on January 20, 2026, targeted bills S5036/A6308 and S5037/A6309, which sought to codify the state’s existing “Immigrant Trust Directive” and create new data privacy protections for undocumented residents. The directive, issued under Murphy’s administration, restricts state and local police from assisting federal ICE agents in civil immigration enforcement.
Murphy said in his veto message that while he supports protecting immigrant communities, the proposed laws could “unintentionally weaken” current safeguards or conflict with federal statutes. “The Attorney General’s existing directive provides strong, lawful protections for immigrant residents,” Murphy wrote, warning that codifying the policy might expose the state to legal challenges.
Immigrant rights advocates had urged Murphy to sign the bills before leaving office, arguing they would shield local governments from future political shifts. The legislature passed the measures in late December, but Murphy’s decision ensures they will not take effect.
Murphy did, however, sign a third related measure requiring the Attorney General’s Office to identify and maintain “safe zones” — locations such as schools, courthouses, and hospitals — where immigration enforcement actions are prohibited.
Governor Mikie Sherrill, who took the oath of office shortly after Murphy’s vetoes, has indicated she plans to continue the existing directive but could consider adjustments during her administration.
Key Points: Murphy vetoes key anti-ICE bills in final hours, leaving issue to new governor Sherrill – Trenton
• Outgoing Governor Phil Murphy vetoed two bills restricting police cooperation with ICE and expanding immigrant data privacy.
• Murphy said the legislation could conflict with federal law and weaken current protections.
• Newly sworn-in Governor Mikie Sherrill is expected to review and possibly revisit the issue.