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Bill

A 1354

Replaces references to "alien" and "illegal alien" in statutes with "foreign national" and "undocumented foreign national," respectively; prohibits use of those terms by executive branch agencies.

2026-2027 Regular Session Introduced by Shama Haider and 5 co-sponsors

New Jersey bill replaces "alien" and "illegal alien" with "foreign national" and "undocumented foreign national" in state law and executive branch communications.

Introduced, Referred to Assembly State and Local Government Committee
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · A 1354

Legislative bill overview

Bill A 1354 replaces the terms "alien" and "illegal alien" throughout New Jersey statutes with "foreign national" and "undocumented foreign national," and prohibits state executive agencies from using the original terminology. The bill is purely linguistic in nature and does not alter substantive immigration law or policy.

Why is this important

Language shapes how populations are perceived and treated in policy discussions and public discourse. Proponents argue that terms like "illegal alien" are dehumanizing and contribute to discrimination, while the bill's supporters view updated language as promoting dignity. Critics contend the change is largely symbolic without addressing underlying immigration policy, though terminology does influence how laws are discussed and implemented across government communications.

Potential points of contention

  • Symbolic vs. substantive: Opponents may argue this addresses language rather than substantive immigration policy concerns, while supporters see terminology as foundational to how vulnerable populations are treated
  • Scope of enforcement: Questions remain about how broadly "executive branch agencies" is defined and what enforcement mechanisms exist for compliance across dozens of agencies and departments
  • Constitutional/jurisdictional concerns: Some may argue federal immigration law uses "alien" as the statutory term, creating potential confusion or conflicts when state agencies interpret federal immigration matters
  • Cost and implementation: Administrative burden of updating all references across codes, forms, systems, and agency documents may be significant, though likely modest compared to other legislative costs

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

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