New York Sheriffs Consider Legal Action Against Governor Hochul Over Immigration Policy Changes

Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman and sheriffs across New York are contemplating legal action against Governor Kathy Hochul regarding her proposal to ban local cooperation agreements with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). They argue that these agreements facilitate the removal of criminal undocumented immigrants from communities. Hochul's proposal includes sanctuary policies in New York’s 2027 fiscal budget, which would prohibit 287(g) agreements, limit ICE access to schools and hospitals, and restrict informal cooperation with ICE. Blakeman, who is also the Republican nominee for governor, stated that discussions are ongoing among sheriffs about filing a lawsuit. Todd Hood, the sheriff of Madison County and Blakeman's running mate, noted that many sheriffs are opposed to the sanctuary state proposal. Currently, there are 14 active 287(g) agreements in nine New York counties, allowing local law enforcement to assist in immigration enforcement under federal direction. Hochul introduced the measure to ban these agreements in January and warned of legal consequences for non-compliance. The 287(g) program allows local officers to notify ICE when an undocumented immigrant is in custody, facilitating their transfer to federal custody. Recent incidents, such as the arrest of an undocumented immigrant for arson, have highlighted the sheriffs' concerns about public safety and the effectiveness of cooperation with ICE.