New York, NY—Today, it was announced that Donald Trump and his incoming administration plan to revoke a federal policy that has restricted Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents from arresting immigrants at or near “sensitive locations”, such as houses of worship, schools, and hospitals without prior approval from supervisors.
Trump is expected to repeal this policy as early as his first day in office, alongside a series of other policy changes set to be implemented.
Murad Awawdeh, President and CEO, New York Immigration Coalition:
“Cruelty, not public safety or security, is Trump's objective. By directing attacks on immigrants to sensitive locations like schools, churches and hospitals, he shows a callous disregard for vulnerable children and the public safety of every New Yorker. Moreover, this policy change will have a chilling impact on immigrant families, who may fear sending their children to school or accessing the services they are entitled to and need to keep their families healthy. Targeting immigrants for arrests and deportation is destructive and diverts resources away from initiatives that actually promote safety and well-being. New York must meet this moment by refusing to participate in ICE’s cruel, politicized immigration agenda. It’s more urgent than ever for New York to pass the New York For All Act to ensure that all residents can live without fear. We urge Governor Hochul and our state elected leaders to take action to protect immigrant families and defend the values that make New York a beacon of hope and opportunity.”
Background:
The New York for All Act, (Gounardes /Reyes) broadly prohibits state and local officers from enforcing federal immigration laws, funneling people into ICE custody, and sharing sensitive information with federal immigration authorities. It also ensures that people in custody are informed of their rights before being interviewed by ICE. The act prohibits ICE and CBP from entering non-public areas of state and local property without a judicial warrant and begins the process of limiting their access to state information databases.