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Bill

Bill

A 6001

Prohibits investment by State of pension and annuity funds in companies engaging in government contracts or business operations infringing on data privacy of individuals for purpose of determining immigration status.

2024-2025 Regular Session Introduced by Annette Quijano

New Jersey would divest public pension funds from companies using data practices to determine immigration status, leveraging state investments to oppose immigration enforcement surveillance.

Introduced in the Assembly, Referred to Assembly State and Local Government Committee
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Bill Summary · A 6001

Legislative bill overview

Bill A 6001 would prohibit New Jersey's public pension and annuity funds from investing in companies that hold government contracts or conduct business operations that use data collection or surveillance to determine immigration status. The bill targets private companies engaged in immigration enforcement activities funded or facilitated through data practices, effectively using the state's investment power as a policy lever.

Why is this important

State pension funds represent billions in assets and their investment decisions can influence corporate behavior. This bill attempts to align public retirement savings with state immigration policy and data privacy values. It could impact companies providing immigration enforcement technology, surveillance services, or data analytics to government agencies while signaling state opposition to certain privacy practices.

Potential points of contention

  • Practical enforcement challenges: Determining which companies indirectly support immigration status determination through data practices could be complex and subjective, potentially creating disputes over fund management decisions
  • Investment return implications: Restricting the investment universe may limit portfolio diversification or returns for pensioners, raising questions about fiduciary duties versus policy objectives
  • Scope and definition ambiguity: The phrase "business operations infringing on data privacy" lacks precise definition—it's unclear whether this applies only to intentional targeting or broader data collection practices that secondarily affect immigration enforcement
  • Constitutional considerations: Questions may arise about whether investment restrictions constitute viewpoint-based discrimination or unlawful state action affecting interstate commerce

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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