Gov. Mikie Sherrill on Tuesday signed an executive order restricting the use of state property by federal immigration agents and announced new tools for residents to report interactions with Immigration and Customs Enforcement, citing concerns about civil rights and public safety.

Sherrill, joined by Acting Attorney General Jennifer Davenport and Acting Human Services Commissioner Stephen Cha, announced Executive Order No. 12 during a press conference, outlining a series of measures aimed at limiting ICE operations on state-controlled property and increasing oversight of federal enforcement activity.

Under the order, ICE agents are prohibited from entering, accessing, or using nonpublic areas of state property for immigration enforcement operations without a judicial warrant. Covered locations include residential medical facilities, child care centers, government offices, and state university dormitories.

Sherrill said the action was intended to protect residents’ constitutional rights and ensure that federal authorities operate within the law.

“I take seriously my responsibility to keep New Jersey residents safe,” Sherrill said, adding that the order was designed to prevent what she described as unlawful or harmful enforcement practices.

The governor also announced the launch of a new online reporting portal operated by the Office of the Attorney General. The portal allows residents to submit information about encounters with ICE, including photos and videos, and to report alleged misconduct.

According to state officials, the portal can be accessed at www.njoag.gov/portal
and is available in 10 languages. Submissions may be used in legal proceedings, investigations, or referrals to other agencies. Reportable incidents include allegations of excessive force, warrantless searches or arrests, racial profiling, wrongful detention, and interference with voting.

Davenport said the reporting system would help ensure accountability and maintain public trust in law enforcement.

“When federal immigration officers violate the law and sow fear in our communities, they undermine public safety,” Davenport said. She encouraged residents to share information through the portal.

In addition to the reporting tool, the administration launched a new website, nj.gov/knowyourrights, providing information about residents’ rights when interacting with federal agents. The site includes guidance and legal resources developed in partnership with the Office of New Americans and other organizations.

Cha said the “Know Your Rights” materials are available in 22 languages and are designed to provide accurate information and access to legal support for immigrants and other residents.

“The goal is to ensure people have clear, reliable guidance, regardless of where they were born or what language they speak,” Cha said.

State officials said the executive order builds on an existing directive from the Attorney General’s Office aimed at strengthening trust between local law enforcement agencies and the communities they serve. That directive limits cooperation with federal immigration authorities in certain circumstances.

The announcement comes amid ongoing national debate over immigration enforcement under former President Donald Trump. Sherrill and her administration cited recent incidents and complaints involving federal agents as part of the rationale for the new measures.

In the press release announcing the order, the governor’s office referenced alleged cases of misconduct by ICE agents, including arrests of U.S. citizens and deaths connected to enforcement operations. State officials said these examples underscored the need for additional safeguards.

The executive order does not prevent ICE from conducting operations in New Jersey, but it limits the use of state facilities and requires judicial authorization for access to restricted areas. Federal agents may still carry out enforcement actions in public spaces and on private property, subject to federal law.

State officials said the reporting portal will also be used to track trends in immigration enforcement and help guide legal strategies aimed at protecting residents’ rights.

Lawmakers and advocacy groups have expressed mixed reactions to similar policies in other states, with supporters arguing they promote civil liberties and public safety, and critics saying they may interfere with federal enforcement efforts.