Kathy Hochul Pushes Sweeping New Limits On ICE Cooperation In New York
New York Gov. Kathy Hochul is proposing a major expansion of sanctuary-style policies, backing new restrictions that would sharply limit cooperation between local law enforcement and federal immigration authorities.
Speaking in Albany, Hochul said she wants stronger protections written into state law as part of ongoing budget negotiations with the Democrat-controlled legislature, arguing the changes are “long overdue.”
Among the most significant proposals is a broad ban on local police working with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, except in cases involving criminal convictions or when officers have probable cause to suspect a misdemeanor or felony.
“Local cops should be focused on local crimes, keeping our streets safe … not doing ICE’s job,” Hochul said.
The plan would also attempt to prohibit ICE agents from wearing masks during operations, making it a misdemeanor under state law, though questions remain about how such a rule could be enforced against federal officers.
Additional measures would expand the list of locations where ICE activity is restricted without a judicial warrant, including parks, shelters, and various housing areas. The proposal would also prevent ICE agents from participating in routine local enforcement actions, such as DWI checkpoints.
Another key provision would bar public employees from using state resources — including their working hours — to assist federal immigration enforcement, effectively creating a more comprehensive sanctuary framework across New York.
The push builds on earlier actions taken under former Gov. Andrew Cuomo, whose 2018 executive order limited cooperation with federal immigration authorities. Hochul has continued and expanded that approach during her tenure.
The proposals have sparked debate within the state legislature. Some Democrats are pushing for even stricter measures, including versions of the so-called “New York for All Act,” while others have raised concerns about balancing public safety and immigration policy.
Assembly Speaker Carl Heastie acknowledged that negotiations remain ongoing, particularly around how much discretion local law enforcement should retain when interacting with federal agencies.
Critics of Hochul’s plan argue the policies could restrict law enforcement flexibility and overlook broader concerns about crime and immigration enforcement. Supporters, meanwhile, say the measures are necessary to protect immigrant communities and ensure state resources are not used for federal immigration actions.
Hochul indicated the proposals are still evolving and could ultimately be modified or excluded from the final budget agreement as talks continue.