Gov. Kathy Hochul is touting a package of immigration-related protections included in New York’s fiscal year 2027 budget, framing the measures as a response to what state leaders describe as increasingly aggressive federal immigration enforcement.
The new laws limit cooperation between local law enforcement and federal immigration authorities, expand protections for schools and other sensitive locations, and create new avenues for legal action against government officials accused of violating constitutional rights. Hochul announced the measures Friday alongside immigration advocates, educators, faith leaders and New Yorkers who said they have been affected by federal enforcement actions.
Among the most significant changes is the “Local Cops, Local Crimes” Act, which bars local governments, police agencies and correctional facilities from entering into 287(g) agreements that allow local officials to assist with federal civil immigration enforcement. The law also prohibits local governments from funding immigration detention facilities and restricts zoning changes for detention centers without public input.
The budget also includes a statewide ban on state, local and federal law enforcement officers wearing face coverings while interacting with the public, with exceptions for tactical equipment, medical masks and sunglasses. Willful violations would be punishable as an infraction, with repeat offenses elevated to misdemeanor charges.
Another provision creates a state-level legal remedy allowing New Yorkers to sue federal, state or local officials for alleged violations of constitutional rights. Supporters say the measure addresses limitations in existing federal law that can make lawsuits against federal officers more difficult.
The legislation further restricts how public agencies, schools and other government entities interact with immigration authorities. State and local employees generally cannot use public resources for civil immigration enforcement, disclose personal information to immigration officials, grant access to non-public government facilities without a judicial warrant, or transfer students into immigration custody absent a court order.
The protections extend to schools, hospitals, shelters, parks, childcare facilities, dormitories, polling places and other locations designated as sensitive spaces. The budget also codifies the right of students to receive a free public education regardless of immigration status and limits the collection and disclosure of immigration-related information that could discourage school attendance.
Supporters of the measures, including lawmakers, immigrant advocacy groups and education leaders, said the laws strengthen protections for immigrant communities and reinforce constitutional safeguards. Critics of similar policies in other states have argued such restrictions can complicate cooperation between local and federal authorities, though those concerns were not addressed during Friday’s announcement.
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