New Jersey Assembly Bill A4186

New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 6/2/22
• Refer: 6/2/22

Caption

Establishes as criminal coercion threatening to initiate a removal action based on immigration status.

Impact

If enacted, A4186 would significantly influence how criminal coercion is defined in the state, specifically in relation to immigration status. Currently, criminal coercion is classified as a fourth-degree crime, punishable by up to 18 months of imprisonment and fines of up to $10,000. By including immigration-related threats in this definition, the bill seeks to deter officials from using their positions to exert undue pressure on vulnerable populations, thereby reinforcing legal protections for immigrants in New Jersey.

Summary

Assembly Bill A4186 aims to amend existing legislation regarding criminal coercion in the state of New Jersey. The bill explicitly establishes that threatening to initiate a deportation or removal action based on an individual's immigration status constitutes criminal coercion. This change is targeted at protecting individuals from coercive threats by public officials that could impact their immigration status, ensuring that such behavior is clearly categorized as a criminal act under state law.

Contention

The introduction of A4186 may provoke debate among lawmakers, particularly concerning immigration policies and local governance. Proponents argue that the bill is a necessary step to safeguard individuals from the misuse of power by officials, thereby supporting civil rights and human dignity. Critics, however, might raise concerns regarding the implications for local law enforcement and the complexities this could introduce into the broader immigration enforcement landscape. The potential for misuse of this legislation by individuals claiming coercion could also be a point of contention among legislators.