Albany – New York State lawmakers are considering further restrictions on cooperation between state and federal immigration enforcement agencies, even as Governor Kathy Hochul has already proposed measures to curb such coordination. The push for more comprehensive limits comes amid concerns over potential constitutional violations and the impact of federal immigration policies on local communities.
Growing Pressure for Broader Reforms
Governor Hochul revealed last month her support for restricting state coordination with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). On January 30th, she backed three proposals aimed at curbing federal immigration enforcement across the state. However, some state lawmakers and advocates believe these measures do not head far enough and are seeking to emulate New York City’s more stringent “sanctuary” policies.
A working group of state Senate Democrats has been formed to draft proposals that would further limit information sharing between state and local governments and federal officials. Lawmakers are weighing the “New York for All Act,” and legislative sources indicate a vote could occur as early as next month.
Concerns Over Information Sharing
A key point of contention is the extent to which information is shared between local agencies – including schools, hospitals, and the Department of Motor Vehicles – and ICE. While Governor Hochul’s proposal would finish formal agreements between local law enforcement and ICE, it would not prohibit informal information sharing. Jodi Ziesemer of the New York Legal Assistance Group explained that, under the current proposal, “Schools, hospitals [and] Department of Motor Vehicles would still be able to informally share information of people’s sensitive data with ICE.”
Manhattan Democratic Assemblyman Micah Lasher expressed the sentiment of many lawmakers, stating, “A lot of my colleagues — myself included — want to go even further than the governor.” State Senate Majority Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins has also pledged to pass the “New York for All Act.”
Potential Legislative Outcomes
Beyond the “New York for All Act,” lawmakers are considering other measures. One bill backed by Governor Hochul would end agreements between local police departments, jails, and ICE until 2029, though some legislators seek to create this prohibition permanent. Another proposal would establish a legal pathway to sue federal officials for alleged constitutional violations. Brooklyn state Senator Zellnor Myrie emphasized the urgency of the situation, stating, “The time is now to get something done.”
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Governor Hochul proposing?
Governor Hochul is backing three proposals aimed at curbing coordination between New York state and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, including ending formal agreements between local law enforcement and ICE until 2029.
What is the “New York for All Act”?
The “New York for All Act” is legislation being considered by state lawmakers that would limit communications between state and local governments and federal officials regarding immigration enforcement.
What is the difference between collaboration and communication with ICE?
Jillian Snider, a former NYPD officer, explained that while communication with federal partners has always occurred, the NYPD does not “collaborate in terms of working together to enforce immigration laws.”
As lawmakers weigh these proposals, the future of immigration enforcement cooperation in New York remains uncertain. Will the state adopt more comprehensive restrictions, or will Governor Hochul’s initial proposals represent the extent of the changes?
