Quijano to Introduce Bill That Would Prohibit Use of Public Property for ICE Operations

(Elizabeth, NJ) — Assemblywoman Annette Quijano (D-Union) announced today that she will introduce legislation that would prohibit the use of publicly owned or controlled property in New Jersey as staging grounds for federal immigration enforcement operations.

Under the bill, parking lots, vacant lots, and garages owned or controlled by a municipality, county, or the State would not be allowed to be used as staging areas, processing locations, or operational bases for federal civil immigration enforcement.

“Public property exists to serve our communities — not to be used in ways that spread fear,” said Assemblywoman Quijano. “When immigration enforcement stages from local government spaces, it undermines trust and discourages families from accessing schools, hospitals, and essential services. This bill makes clear that New Jersey’s public lands are not tools for federal civil immigration operations.”

The legislation would direct the Director of the Division of Local Government Services to identify affected properties and issue guidance, including standardized signage stating that such property could not be used for immigration enforcement staging.

Certain private property owners — including businesses, faith institutions, medical providers, and nonprofits — would also be able to request similar signage.

The bill would not interfere with the execution of judicial warrants in criminal matters or lawful activities permitted under state or federal law.

“This is about protecting community trust, maintaining local control, and ensuring our public spaces remain safe and accessible to all,” Assemblywoman Quijano added.

The Assemblywoman plans to introduce the legislation tomorrow.