New York Governor Kathy Hochul received enthusiastic support during her recent State of the State address when she declared that state resources would not be used to assist in federal immigration raids. This statement garnered a standing ovation, highlighting the significance of her commitment to protecting immigrant communities.
In response to the governor’s announcement, Murad Awawdeh, president and CEO of the New York Immigration Coalition, expressed his approval. He stated during an interview with Capital Tonight, “I think that the governor over the past year has really stepped up to defend immigrant New Yorkers and in her State of the State yesterday, she continued to push that forward.” Advocates see this as a critical moment for immigrant rights in New York.
A focal point of Hochul’s address was the proposed “New York for All Act” (S2235A Gounardes/A3506 Reyes). If enacted, this legislation would prohibit local law enforcement from collaborating with the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). While the governor’s remarks were positively received, Awawdeh emphasized the importance of passing the bill in its current form to ensure comprehensive protections for immigrants.
Awawdeh highlighted the financial implications of failing to uphold immigrant rights, referencing a recent settlement in which Suffolk County was required to pay damages to over 670 immigrants unlawfully detained by the county sheriff’s office. He remarked, “I think we should ask Suffolk County residents who are going to have to pay more in local county taxes because their county officials violated peoples’ rights and now that is going to mean an increase in their local taxes.” This statement underscores the potential economic ramifications of local law enforcement’s collaboration with federal immigration authorities.
In addition to the New York for All Act, Hochul proposed measures that would empower individuals to initiate state-level civil actions against federal officials who infringe upon their constitutional rights. This marks a significant step in ensuring accountability for violations related to immigration enforcement.
Moreover, the governor called for legislation requiring a judicial warrant for civil immigration enforcement in sensitive areas such as schools, childcare facilities, healthcare institutions, and houses of worship. This proposal aims to safeguard vulnerable populations in environments where they should feel secure.
The developments from Hochul’s address signal a robust effort to bolster protections for immigrant communities in New York. Advocates are urging swift passage of the proposed legislation, emphasizing the urgency of these measures in light of recent events. The focus remains clear: the need for comprehensive protections for all New Yorkers, irrespective of their immigration status.
