New York Governor Kathy Hochul announced Friday a push to sever ties between Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and local police departments across the state. The move comes as Hochul seeks to limit the extent of ICE’s reach within New York communities.
Legislative Proposal
Currently, eight counties in New York, including Nassau County, participate in agreements that allow ICE to deputize local police officers to assist in the detention of undocumented immigrants. Governor Hochul has proposed legislation, dubbed the “Local Cops Local Crimes Act,” that would significantly restrict such cooperation. According to Hochul, the legislation will prevent the “weaponization” of local police by a “rogue federal agency.”
The governor stated that the proposed law would not impede local law enforcement’s ability to collaborate with ICE on cases involving undocumented individuals who have committed crimes. “When individuals enter this country illegally and commit crimes, I want them arrested and tried,” Hochul said. “If they’re convicted, they must be imprisoned and deported.”
Support and Opposition
New York City Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch affirmed the importance of continued cooperation with federal agencies, stating that such partnerships are “vital to public safety” in cases involving terrorism, violence, and gang activity. Tisch, along with other police commanders statewide, reportedly supports the proposed legislation.
However, Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman released a statement strongly opposing the governor’s plan, claiming it would “endanger communities” and allow “dangerous criminals to return to our neighborhoods.” Blakeman characterized Hochul as “the most pro-criminal governor in the United States.”
Governor Hochul expressed her determination to prevent local officers from assisting ICE in detaining and deporting individuals who have not been convicted of crimes, stating, “You will not use our police technology to track people who’ve done nothing wrong, you will not throw innocent people into our jails.”
What Happens Next?
The proposed legislation will now move to the New York State Legislature for consideration. If passed, the “Local Cops Local Crimes Act” could significantly alter the relationship between local law enforcement and ICE in New York. It is possible that legal challenges to the law could arise, depending on its final form and implementation. The outcome will likely depend on the degree of support the bill receives from both sides of the aisle in the legislature.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the “Local Cops Local Crimes Act?”
The “Local Cops Local Crimes Act” is proposed legislation that would sharply limit cooperation between local police agencies and ICE in New York State.
Does this legislation prevent cooperation with ICE altogether?
No, Governor Hochul has emphasized that the law would not prevent local law enforcement from cooperating with ICE in cases involving undocumented individuals who have been convicted of crimes.
Which counties currently cooperate with ICE?
Currently, eight counties across New York State, including Nassau County, allow ICE to deputize local police to help detain undocumented immigrants.
How might this legislation impact public safety in New York?
