The American Civil Liberties Union of New Jersey (ACLU-NJ) has expressed strong opposition to the recently passed Laken Riley Act. The statement from ACLU-NJ Executive Director Amol Sinha criticizes the legislation, stating that it "exploits a tragedy to violate the Constitution." According to Sinha, the act mandates detention without due process for individuals accused of certain criminal offenses, irrespective of charges or convictions.
Sinha argues that this bill will result in separating individuals from their families and communities while benefiting the private prison industry. He further claims that it supports President Trump's mass deportation agenda. "By passing this legislation, Congress is perpetuating racism and xenophobia, and depriving people of their fundamental constitutional rights," he stated.
The ACLU-NJ maintains that the bill does not enhance national safety. Sinha emphasizes that public safety in New Jersey relies on fostering strong communities and trust in public institutions rather than undermining civil rights. He advocates for immigration law reforms based on commonsense approaches that respect constitutional rights.
Sinha also commended several New Jersey lawmakers who opposed the bill. These include Senator Booker, Senator Kim, Congressman Conaway, Congresswoman McIver, Congressman Menendez, Congressman Norcross, Congressman Pallone Jr., Congresswoman Pou, Congresswoman Sherrill, and Congresswoman Watson Coleman. He thanked them for their dedication to safeguarding immigrant community rights both within New Jersey and nationwide.
