Tensions escalated between the Biden administration and Governor Kathy Hochul following her public plea for expediting migrant work authorizations.
In a letter to both Gov. Hochul and NYC Mayor Eric Adams, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) outlined perceived shortcomings in New York City’s response to the recent surge in migrants, spotlighting concerns like insufficient case management and other operational challenges.
These criticisms came after Hochul’s live-streamed address wherein she sought more federal aid to cope with the migration crisis and emphasized, “Let them work.”
Despite the friction, there’s a consensus on the broader mission.
A Homeland Security assessment team, after visiting New York City shelters, recommended enhanced information collection, better communication with migrants about work authorization, and more effective case management.
While the federal government praised New York’s efforts under the strain of the migration wave, statements from the governor and mayor’s offices underlined the urgency for federal involvement.
Discrepancies on providing necessary services to migrants, particularly legal support, remain a focal point of contention as both state and federal administrations navigate the crisis.
FingerLakes1.com is the region’s leading all-digital news publication. The company was founded in 1998 and has been keeping residents informed for more than two decades. Have a lead? Send it to [email protected].