TRENTON, NJ – New Jersey Assemblyman Paul Kanitra has criticized state immigration policies, which he claims are contributing to a surge in illegal immigration and exploiting vulnerable populations. During a recent trip to the Texas border, Kanitra observed firsthand the conditions and dynamics of illegal crossings, prompting a deeper investigation into New Jersey’s role in this complex issue.
“Last week at the Mexican border, I saw the reality of how New Jersey’s Sanctuary State policies are directly fueling the illegal immigration crisis in our country,” Kanitra stated, highlighting the extensive journey many undertake in hopes of benefiting from state policies. His findings estimate that nearly 819,400 illegal immigrants currently reside in New Jersey, equating to about one in every ten residents, with a significant number living in “absolutely deplorable conditions.”
Kanitra argues that the state’s policies, particularly those promising sanctuary and various taxpayer-funded benefits, create incentives for illegal immigration. “Our actions here in New Jersey are incentivizing and encouraging people worldwide to break our laws and access the taxpayer-funded benefits we’re providing,” he explained. According to his research, the average illegal immigrant in New Jersey receives over $8,000 a year in benefits, costing legal households approximately $2,100 annually.
The assemblyman’s comprehensive report proposes several reforms aimed at addressing these issues, including enhancing law enforcement cooperation with federal authorities and revising benefit allocations to discourage illegal immigration. “The solution to all of this, how we end this crisis, involves common sense recommendations that will save billions in our budget, reunite families, and stop exploitation in its tracks,” Kanitra concluded.
These statements and proposals aim to spark further discussion and potential policy adjustments regarding New Jersey’s approach to immigration and its broader impacts on both the state and national levels.
In a recent video, NJ Assemblyman Paul Kanitra sheds light on the impact of New Jersey’s policies on illegal immigration during his 2,000-mile trip to Eagle Pass and Del Rio, Texas. The video, which has garnered attention since its release on May 7, 2024, delves into various aspects of how state policies might be worsening the situation.
Key Points Addressed in the Video:
- Crossing Dynamics: The video starts by illustrating the crossing from Piedras Negras, Mexico into the U.S., setting the stage for a broader discussion on immigration patterns to New Jersey.
- Surge in Illegal Immigration: Kanitra discusses the noticeable increase in illegal immigrants heading towards New Jersey, suggesting that specific state policies might be attracting more illegal entries.
- Policy Impact: The assemblyman argues that New Jersey’s policies are exacerbating illegal immigration issues. He highlights Governor Murphy’s commitment to maintaining New Jersey as a sanctuary state, which could potentially be seen as an inviting factor for illegal immigrants.
- Process and Funding Concerns: The video critiques the fast-track processing of immigrants in New Jersey and alleges that state funds are being indirectly used to facilitate illegal border crossings.
- Covert Operations: Kanitra touches on what he describes as covert connections that may be facilitating the movement of illegal immigrants into New Jersey.
- Solutions and Measures: The latter part of the video focuses on possible measures and policies that could address the illegal immigration crisis more effectively in New Jersey.