Two New York Counties File Suit Against Governor Over ICE Cooperation Ban
Rensselaer and Broome counties are joining a federal case to block a new state law that stops local police from working with ICE, while Nassau County considers participation.
Officials from Rensselaer County and Broome County plan to join a federal lawsuit aimed at overturning New York's Local Crimes, Local Cop Act, which bars police departments from entering the 287(g) partnership with federal immigration authorities. The law, effective August 25, would automatically cancel existing ICE cooperation agreements in 13 counties. Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman, who is running for governor against Kathy Hochul, has expressed strong opposition to the statute and indicated interest in the suit, though he has not formally joined.
Hochul has reiterated that local police may assist ICE only when a serious crime occurs and has warned that counties cannot defy state law, pledging that the attorney general will enforce compliance. The New York Attorney General’s Office has issued subpoenas to counties that have not yet confirmed termination of ICE contracts. The dispute highlights a broader political clash over immigration enforcement at the local level.
Why it matters
The case could determine whether New York counties can continue collaborating with federal immigration officials.
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