New Jersey Releases Safe Communities Act Model Policies to Protect Access to Essential Services
- 2 days ago
- 1 min read
The New Jersey Office of the Attorney General has released new Safe Communities Act model policies designed to help protect access to essential services for immigrant communities throughout the state.
The model policies provide guidance for institutions that serve the public—including health care facilities, public schools, places of worship, social service offices, shelter facilities, and correctional facilities—on how to prepare for and respond to federal civil immigration enforcement activity while maintaining access to critical services.
The Safe Communities Act was enacted to improve community safety, safeguard access to essential services, and strengthen public trust in public institutions. Under the law, the Attorney General was directed to develop model policies that sensitive locations can adopt or use to strengthen their existing protocols.
As Attorney General Jennifer Davenport stated:
"No one in our state should be afraid to go to school, get medical care, worship, or seek the help they need."
The released guidance outlines best practices for organizations, including preparing for encounters with immigration officials, responding to requests for access or information, and documenting interactions appropriately. These resources are intended to help institutions continue serving their communities while complying with applicable state and federal law.
Learn More:
Safe Communities Act Resources: https://www.lanfoundation.org/resource-hub/immigrants-rights




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