The U.S. Department of Justice has sued New Jersey Governor Mikie Sherrill and Attorney General Jennifer Davenport over two state laws it deems unconstitutional: a law requiring law enforcement officers to show identification before detaining individuals and prohibiting mask wearing while on duty, and another providing financial assistance to undocumented immigrants attending public colleges.

In the 24-page complaint, the DOJ argues that New Jersey’s “Law Enforcement Officer Protection Act” violates federal law by endangering the privacy and safety of federal officers. The law mandates that officers provide sufficient identification prior to detaining individuals and permits limited exceptions requiring the state attorney general to issue guidelines. Assistant Attorney General Brett A. Shumate stated the department will “steadfastly protect the privacy and safety of law enforcement from unconstitutional state laws like New Jersey’s.” He characterized the measure as an attempt by the state to regulate federal operations and a catalyst for harassment, doxing, and violence against federal personnel.

The DOJ also contends that two other New Jersey laws—signed by former governors Chris Christie in 2013 and Phil Murphy in 2018—are unconstitutional because they provide benefits to undocumented immigrants that U.S. citizens from other states are not entitled to receive. The department asserts these laws violate federal law, as colleges cannot extend such benefits to illegal aliens without extending them to all U.S. citizens.

Local reports indicate officers have refused to comply with the state’s law in situations where adherence could endanger themselves or others.