The legal fight over sanctuary city policies in New Jersey just took another twist. Now, four of the state’s biggest cities—Jersey City, Newark, Hoboken, and Paterson—want a federal judge to toss out a Trump administration lawsuit challenging their stance.
This case focuses on the 2018 Immigrant Trust Directive. The 3rd Circuit Court of Appeals already upheld it, saying it limits how much local police get involved in federal civil immigration enforcement.
Easy booking across hundreds of accommodations from luxury high-rises to unearthed brownstone treasures.
Browse Accommodations Now
The federal government wants the courts to reconsider. But these cities say the Constitution gives them the right to decide, and that previous rulings already settled the matter.
Background on the Immigrant Trust Directive
New Jersey’s attorney general introduced the Immigrant Trust Directive in 2018. The goal? Build trust in the community and get people to work with the police.
The policy keeps local police from getting too involved in federal immigration enforcement. In 2021, the 3rd Circuit Court of Appeals backed up the directive, saying local governments can choose how much they cooperate with federal immigration authorities.
The court highlighted constitutional protections against federal overreach, especially the 10th Amendment’s anticommandeering doctrine.
Why the Cities Are Seeking Dismissal
The cities argue the Justice Department’s lawsuit is just repeating questions that have already been answered. Their attorneys say the appellate ruling binds the judge, and only a higher court could change it.
Find available hotels and vacation homes instantly. No fees, best rates guaranteed!
Check Availability Now
Former New Jersey attorney general Gurbir Grewal, now representing Newark and Hoboken, says municipalities have the authority to set their own policies here. The cities insist they don’t block federal cooperation in criminal cases, but focus on civil immigration matters.
The Federal Government’s Position
The Trump administration claims the earlier ruling missed the mark. It says rising illegal immigration justifies taking another look at sanctuary policies.
The administration argues that local policies clash with the Constitution’s supremacy clause by conflicting with federal immigration law. It’s also threatened to pull federal funds from cities that won’t help with immigration enforcement, raising the pressure on municipalities across the country.
Constitutional Arguments at Play
The 10th Amendment’s anticommandeering doctrine stands at the heart of the cities’ defense. This rule stops the federal government from forcing local authorities to carry out federal orders.
Cities say their current policies—and the state’s directive—would stick around even if local orders disappeared. So, police practices wouldn’t really change much if the challenged policies went away.
What This Means for Jersey City Residents
For Jersey City, this isn’t just a court case. It’s about local values and the city’s right to make its own choices.
The Immigrant Trust Directive shapes how residents and police interact every day. It affects how people feel about public safety and whether they trust law enforcement enough to get involved.
Depending on the outcome, the city could also see changes in federal funding or its reputation for inclusivity. The stakes feel pretty real for folks living here.
Visiting and Navigating Jersey City
For anyone exploring Jersey City, getting a feel for local policies is just part of soaking in the city’s personality. Maybe you’re checking into one of the many excellent Jersey City hotels, or you’re still figuring out where to stay in Jersey City.
The city’s reputation as a culturally diverse and downright welcoming place is tough to ignore. There’s always something happening here.
Take a walk along the waterfront—you’ll catch some pretty jaw-dropping views of the Manhattan skyline. Or maybe you’ll wander into the Liberty Science Center, which is a favorite for families and the curious alike.
Getting to Jersey City isn’t much of a hassle, either. PATH trains, ferries, and the nearby airports make the journey surprisingly easy.
Find the perfect hotel or vacation rental. Instant booking, no fees!
View Top Stays
Here is the source article for this story: Jersey City and Others Ask Judge to Uphold Sanctuary City Policies
Getting Around Jersey City, NJ
Plan Your Stay in Jersey City, NJ
Things to Do in Jersey City, NJ
