Solomon Unveils Policy to Expand Sanctuary Protections in Jersey City

Jersey City mayoral candidate James Solomon has announced a policy plan to strengthen protections for immigrant communities and reaffirm the city’s sanctuary city status, amid escalating legal threats from the Trump administration.

“Jersey City is a city of immigrants—America’s Golden Door as the home of Ellis Island,” Solomon said. “As mayor, I will fiercely defend our sanctuary protections, stand up to unlawful federal actions, and ensure every resident feels safe, respected, and valued.”

Solomon’s announcement comes as the Trump administration intensifies efforts to dismantle local sanctuary protections. In May, the U.S. Department of Justice filed a lawsuit against Jersey City and three other New Jersey municipalities, challenging their sanctuary policies as unconstitutional. The administration has also issued executive orders threatening to withhold federal funding from jurisdictions that refuse to cooperate with immigration enforcement.

Solomon’s plan includes mandatory training for all city employees and contractors “to fully follow the law, including by refusing to cooperate with federal immigration authorities.” The training would include “real-world scenarios” and prepare staff “to direct affected individuals to appropriate resources and services.”

The proposal also outlines a citywide education effort using multilingual “know-your-rights posters in public facilities like schools, libraries, and hospitals,” and partnerships to provide “free in-person and virtual know-your-rights training.”

Solomon pledged to “dramatically expand” immigration services, including legal aid, through partnerships with trusted groups to “connect immigrants directly with organizations that provide key services.”

Under the plan, businesses would need to deny immigration agents access without a warrant or subpoena to maintain city licenses. This policy “ensures that businesses follow due process, respect worker rights, and do not voluntarily exceed what the law requires.”

Solomon also plans to designate schools and libraries as “safe zones” and expand translation, tutoring, and legal aid for immigrant children and families.