TRENTON, NJ – New Jersey’s status as a sanctuary state could soon be tested after an order by The Department of Homeland Security removing sanctuary safety from places once viewed as immigration safe-havens.
DHS, late Monday rescinded a 2021 policy that restricted U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officers from making arrests in or near “sensitive” locations, including schools, churches, and healthcare facilities. The policy reversal, enacted through a memo issued by the Trump administration, signals a significant shift in federal immigration enforcement.
The new directive removes restrictions put in place by former DHS Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas under President Biden, which were designed to limit enforcement actions in areas where immigrants might seek essential services or protection. Instead, ICE officers are now instructed to use “common sense” when deciding on arrests in these areas, without specific prohibitions.
ICE officers welcomed the change, saying it will enhance their ability to carry out enforcement actions. “This opens things up for our enforcement efforts,” one officer said. “Illegal aliens will no longer be able to hide near schools, churches, hospitals, or other places to avoid arrest.”
Immigration advocates criticized the move, arguing it could deter immigrants from seeking necessary healthcare, education, or religious services out of fear of detention or deportation. The policy reversal has drawn sharp reactions from immigrant rights organizations and is expected to face legal and political challenges.
This development underscores a stark contrast between immigration policies under the Biden and Trump administrations, with the latter signaling an aggressive return to stricter enforcement.