Requires State Police to develop public database of criminally charged or convicted undocumented immigrants.
Summary
S3747, titled the “Right to Know Act,” requires the New Jersey State Police to create and maintain a publicly accessible database of certain people in custody who are both undocumented and have been charged with or convicted of a crime. The bill applies to individuals held in state, county, or municipal correctional facilities and would make their information available to the public.
For each person listed, the database must include a photograph, the crime charged or convicted, and the location and date of release from custody. The bill takes effect immediately and would add these requirements to Title 53 of the Revised Statutes.
Impact
The bill would impose a new duty on the State Police to collect, maintain, and publish information about a narrowly defined group of incarcerated individuals. It would create a public-facing state database and require disclosure of personal and criminal-case information, including photos and release details, affecting correctional facilities, law enforcement recordkeeping, and the privacy interests of the listed individuals.
Sentiment
Based on the bill text and the absence of recorded committee testimony or votes, the available context suggests the measure is presented as a public-safety and transparency initiative by its sponsor. No formal recorded support or opposition is provided in the materials supplied, so broader sentiment cannot be measured from hearings or roll calls. The bill’s framing indicates an intent to inform the public about undocumented individuals in custody who have criminal charges or convictions.
Contention
The main points of contention likely concern privacy, due process, and the targeting of undocumented immigrants as a class. Critics could object to public disclosure of photographs and custody/release information, especially for people who are merely charged and not convicted, while supporters would likely emphasize public access to information and community safety. The bill also raises practical questions about how the State Police would verify immigration status and maintain the database accurately.