As New York prepares for President-elect Donald Trump’s return to the White House, Governor Kathy Hochul and Attorney General Letitia James have committed to safeguarding New Yorkers’ fundamental freedoms, establishing the Empire State Freedom Initiative to address potential federal policy risks.
The initiative, convened before Election Day, has already begun assessing key areas where New Yorkers’ rights may face threats under the new administration, focusing on reproductive rights, civil liberties, immigration, gun safety, and environmental protections. “My office has been preparing for a potential second Trump Administration,” said Attorney General James. “We’re ready to defend New Yorkers and ensure our state does not go backwards.”
In addition to the Empire State Freedom Initiative, Hochul and James announced that senior officials in both their offices will work closely to coordinate legal strategies, prepare responses to federal policy shifts, and provide guidance to residents. Hochul emphasized her administration’s dedication to protecting New Yorkers, stating, “I’m committed to working on policies that make our state safer, stronger, and more livable.”
The Governor highlighted that New Yorkers have already taken action to protect reproductive freedoms through Proposition 1, which recently passed and enshrines abortion access in the State Constitution. Hochul also signed additional protections into law, such as the Abortion Provider Support Fund and a strengthened Shield Law for reproductive healthcare providers.
As co-chair of the U.S. Climate Alliance, Governor Hochul reaffirmed her commitment to advancing climate goals, with New York aiming for a zero-emission electricity sector by 2040. In anticipation of federal challenges, Hochul stated, “New York will continue leading with aggressive climate action.”
Furthermore, the state is prepared to confront any federal rollback on gun safety. Hochul’s Interstate Task Force on Illegal Guns, established in 2022, remains active and has so far seized over 28,000 illegal firearms.
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