Designates June of each year as "Immigrant Heritage Month."

2026-2027 Regular Session Introduced by Shama Haider and 2 co-sponsors

Designates June as Immigrant Heritage Month in New Jersey to recognize immigrant contributions and urges a yearly gubernatorial proclamation and related observances.

Introduced, Referred to Assembly State and Local Government Committee

Bill Summary — AJR 71 (Session 222, New Jersey)

Main purpose

AJR 71 designates June of each year in New Jersey as “Immigrant Heritage Month.” The resolution aims to recognize the contributions of immigrants to New Jersey’s economy, culture, and workforce, and to encourage celebration and awareness through official proclamations and related activities.

Key provisions

designation: The month of June each year is officially designated as Immigrant Heritage Month in New Jersey.

ceremonial encouragement: The Governor is requested to issue an annual proclamation calling on public officials and all residents to observe Immigrant Heritage Month with appropriate activities and programs.

effective date: The resolution takes effect immediately.

Context and rationale (as described in the bill)

Immigrant presence: New Jersey has the fifth-largest immigrant population in the United States, with more than 20% of residents born outside the country.

diversity and influence: The state is highlighted as one of the most diverse in the nation, with Jersey City identified in 2018 as the most ethnically diverse mid-sized city in the U.S.

economic impact: Immigrants constitute more than a quarter of the workforce and about 50% of employment in computer and mathematical sciences in New Jersey.

education and skilled labor: Immigrants comprise roughly 48% of residents with master's degrees and 41% with doctorates in scientific fields.

entrepreneurship: Immigrant-owned businesses account for about 47% of main street businesses, generating roughly $4.4 billion in annual earnings, and they run one-fifth of self-employed businesses, contributing about $3.3 billion in annual revenue. New Jersey reportedly ranks second in the nation for jobs created by immigrant-owned businesses.

spending power: Immigrant households contribute an estimated $54.6 billion in yearly spending power.

potential impact of policy changes: The statement notes a potential GDP impact (approximately $872.6 million) if certain immigrant groups (El Salvador, Haiti, Honduras) lost their Temporary Protected Status, underscoring the broader economic relevance of immigrant communities.

Who or what would be affected

Public officials and state residents would be encouraged to participate in Immigrant Heritage Month activities.

The Governor’s office would issue an annual proclamation to recognize and promote the designated month.

The designation principally affects cultural, educational, and community observances focused on immigrant contributions.

Procedural and timeline aspects

Introduction and referral: AJR 71 was introduced on January 13, 2026, and referred to the Assembly State and Local Government Committee.

Nature: As a joint resolution, it designates a commemorative month rather than creating new law or funding.

Duration: The designation is annual and repeats each June, starting with the next June following enactment.

Bill