Governor Hochul’s Ban on ICE Agreements Sparks Controversy

New York Governor Kathy Hochul explained why the state banned civil immigration-enforcement agreements with ICE on “Morning Joe.” She emphasized the need for local law enforcement to focus on local crime. A Department of Homeland Security (DHS) spokesperson told Fox News Digital that this move would require more federal agents in communities. Fifteen county sheriffs are challenging the law in federal court.

“When politicians bar local law enforcement from working with DHS, our law enforcement officers have to have a more visible presence so that we can find and apprehend the criminals let out of jails and back into communities,” the DHS spokesperson stated.

The DHS highlighted cases where noncitizens remained at large or were released despite ICE detainers. These cases involved serious charges like attempted murder and rape. ICE later took all five individuals into custody, and one was deported to Mexico.

Governor Hochul defended the ban on 287(g) agreements, arguing that local officers should prioritize local crime. Her spokesperson stated, “Governor Hochul has been clear: You don’t make New York State safer by co-opting local law enforcement to conduct civil immigration enforcement that targets families, children and hardworking individuals.”

On “Morning Joe,” co-host Willie Geist asked if ICE could still secure agreements with New York police forces. DHS warned that without local partnerships, federal agents would need a more visible presence in communities. “I just banned it,” Hochul responded, emphasizing the new law.

The Local Cops, Local Crimes Act, effective Tuesday, prohibits state and local entities from engaging in 287(g) agreements. These agreements allowed trained local personnel to perform certain federal immigration functions. Hochul’s office clarified that the law does not prevent jails from notifying ICE about potentially deportable individuals.

Fifteen New York county sheriffs have sued the Hochul administration, arguing that the law restricts their federally authorized ICE agreements. The lawsuit, led by Rensselaer County Sheriff Kyle Bourgault, claims the ban overrides sheriffs’ authority. Attorney General Letitia James has taken legal action against Rensselaer County, seeking to terminate its agreement with ICE.

A federal judge recently denied a request for a preliminary injunction against the 287(g) ban. This allows the law to take effect as the litigation remains pending. The 15 sheriffs have also requested emergency relief in their lawsuit.