Governor Murphy Seeks Advance Notice from Bus Companies on Migrant Transport

New Directive Seeks Details on Migrant Transports to Aid in State's Preparedness and Safety Measures.

[Trenton, NJ] – In a recent development, Governor Phil Murphy has issued a letter to various charter bus companies involved in the transportation of migrants from Texas and Louisiana to New Jersey. This move is a response to the ongoing situation where a significant number of migrants, primarily aiming for New York City, have been arriving in New Jersey since late December 2023.

The Governor's request to these transportation operators is primarily for logistical and safety reasons. The letter asks for specific information to be provided to the New Jersey Office of Emergency Management at least 32 hours before the buses' expected arrival. This includes the number of passengers aboard, the composition of these groups (such as single adults, families, and unaccompanied minors), intended drop-off locations within New Jersey, and details about the buses themselves, including departure times and locations.

This request comes in the wake of recent changes in the transportation patterns of migrants. According to reports, these changes may be linked to the reluctance of bus operators to adhere to a recent executive order from the New York City Mayor, which imposes restrictions on the timing and locations of migrant drop-offs in the city.

By obtaining advance information on these migrant transports, the New Jersey state authorities aim to enhance preparedness and ensure the appropriate resources and support are available upon the migrants' arrival. This step is also intended to facilitate better coordination with neighboring New York, as many migrants are transiting through New Jersey en route to their final destinations.

Governor Murphy's directive reflects an effort to address the logistical and safety challenges posed by the influx of migrants through proactive state-level intervention and inter-state cooperation.