Mercer Times

Acting Governor Way has enacted new legislation in New Jersey that imposes civil penalties on employers who disclose or threaten to reveal an employee's immigration status to hide their own labor violations. This measure aims to protect workers from employer intimidation related to immigration status.

State employment laws already offer broad protections for all employees, regardless of their immigration status. However, fears of retaliation have often prevented workers from reporting employer violations. The newly signed bill ensures that any employer threatening or disclosing an employee's immigration status as a means to cover up wage or other violations will face civil penalties, in addition to existing penalties for the original violation.

"New Jersey’s greatest strength lies in its diverse and dedicated workforce," stated Acting Governor Way. "No worker should face harassment or intimidation from their employers."

The Commissioner of Labor and Workforce Development will enforce these penalties, ensuring fair treatment for all employees. Robert Asaro-Angelo, Commissioner of the New Jersey Department of Labor and Workforce Development, remarked: “The Labor Department is committed to safeguarding the rights of all workers, regardless of immigration status.”

Senate Majority Leader M. Teresa Ruiz emphasized the importance of protecting worker rights: “By establishing a penalty for employers who weaponized an employee’s immigration status against them... we will protect worker’s rights.”

Assemblywoman Alixon Collazos-Gill also commented on the significance of this legislation: “The legislation signed today is a crucial step in protecting our workforce.”

Other state leaders echoed similar sentiments about ensuring safe work environments free from exploitation based on immigration status.

Sarah Fajardo from ACLU-NJ expressed support for the law: "All New Jerseyans deserve the ability to earn a living and provide for their families without having their employer disclose or threaten to disclose their immigration status."

Dr. Jesselly De La Cruz highlighted how this law supports working-class Latino immigrant families: "This legislation demonstrates how New Jersey can lead the way...to ensure that a fair wage is a human right."

Michael E. Hellstrom addressed concerns within specific industries like construction: "This important piece of legislation addresses a deeply disconcerning practice in the construction industry..."

Erik Cruz Morales noted immigrant workers' contributions and vulnerabilities: “Immigrant workers participate in New Jersey's labor force at a rate 5.2% higher than native-born workers..."

Garrett O'Connor commended legislative sponsors and supporters while Marleina Ubel emphasized inclusivity and fairness as core values being upheld by this initiative.