New Jersey enacts shield law for reproductive and gender-affirming care

New Jersey Governor Mikie Sherrill has signed a comprehensive law designed to provide robust physical and legal protections for reproductive and gender-affirming healthcare. The legislation combines shield law mechanisms with a state-level version of the Freedom of Access to Clinic Entrances (FACE) Act.

The law aims to criminalize physical interference with healthcare services and protects patients and providers from out-of-state criminal, civil, and professional prosecutions. This move comes as Democratic-led states seek to establish safeguards following changes in federal enforcement and administration policies regarding abortion clinics and the transgender community.