1. United States
2. N.J.
3. Letter

I am writing to urge you to support Bill A4300, which would impose a 50% tax on gross receipts of private detention facilities operating in New Jersey, including privately operated migrant detention centers. This legislation represents a constitutional approach to addressing the serious concerns surrounding private detention facilities in our state. After previous attempts to shut down such facilities were deemed unconstitutional by courts, this tax-based strategy offers a legally sound alternative that acknowledges the state's right to regulate and tax businesses operating within its borders while discouraging the expansion of an industry that profits from human detention. Private detention facilities create perverse financial incentives that prioritize occupancy rates over human dignity and due process. By imposing a substantial tax on their gross receipts, A4300 would ensure that if these facilities continue to operate in New Jersey, they contribute significantly to state revenues that can be directed toward services that benefit all residents. The 50% rate reflects the extraordinary social costs these facilities impose on our communities. This bill is part of a broader legislative response to escalating immigration enforcement tactics that have included warrantless raids, masked agents in unmarked vehicles, and operations near schools and workplaces. Recent incidents, including ICE agents shooting and killing U.S. citizens in Minneapolis and agents telling Jersey City Councilman Jake Ephros they did not need judicial warrants for operations on public transit, demonstrate the urgent need for state-level action to protect constitutional rights and public safety. New Jersey has a responsibility to ensure that businesses operating within our borders align with our values and contribute fairly to our communities. I urge you to vote yes on A4300 and send a clear message that New Jersey will not subsidize an industry built on the detention of vulnerable people.