52:17B-4.21 Findings and declarations.
2. The Legislature finds and declares that: a. One of the founding principles of this nation is the freedom to worship in peace. Our religious institutions should be places where community members feel safe to convene. Individuals should not be deterred from attending their places of worship out of a general fear that their personal freedom to assemble for worship may be encumbered. b. Schools, hospitals, shelters, courthouses, and other essential government services should be safe and accessible to all eligible community members who are seeking services. Individuals should not be deterred from seeking services for which they are eligible because of a generalized fear of engaging with institutions. c. New Jersey is a healthier, safer, and more prosperous State when all residents access the services for which they are eligible. A coordinated effort by all relevant municipal, county, and State agencies is required to create conditions that empower residents to seek the help they need from public services, including education, health, and public safety services. d. The residents of this State should not hesitate to participate in worship services, attend school, appear in court, or seek necessary medical care, services, or shelter out of fear. e. Therefore, it is fitting and proper to direct State, county, and municipal entities to attend to local priorities rather than carrying out federal civil law enforcement initiatives for which they lack the requisite experience and that contravene the priorities of freedom and safety for New Jersey residents. L.2025, c.401, s.2.