How New York’s Law Restricts ICE Since August?

New York will implement as of August 25, 2026 a law that limits local collaboration with ICE in civil immigration matters. The regulation, known as Local Cops, Local Crimes Act, was promoted by Governor Kathy Hochul and signed on May 27.

The measure prohibits agreements that convert municipal police officers into federal immigration agents. However, the law does not expel ICE or prevent its federal operations within the state. Its main objective is to prevent local governments from using personnel, jails, and public funds to carry out civil immigration detentions.

What Changes for Local Police Departments?

The legislation incorporates section 170-K into New York’s Executive Law. From the effective date forward, no local government may enter into, renew, or maintain 287(g) agreements with ICE. These agreements allow state or municipal officers to exercise certain immigration functions under federal authorization. Attorney General Letitia James confirmed that the ban also covers informal arrangements with similar objectives.

The regulation applies to police departments, sheriff’s offices, correctional centers, and juvenile facilities. The law seeks to separate local police functions from the civil enforcement of federal immigration regulations. State government maintains that this separation can strengthen immigrant communities’ trust in police.

What Will Happen with Existing Agreements?

The Attorney General notified 12 local agencies on July 24 that maintained 287(g) agreements. State authorities demanded that these agreements be dismantled before August 25. By mid-August, 5 agencies had communicated their intention to comply with the new regulation.

Another 7 entities still needed to formalize the termination of their agreements with ICE. Among them are the Nassau County Sheriff’s Office and the Nassau Police Department. Existing agreements are considered null and without legal force 90 days after the law’s enactment. Agencies that fail to comply could face investigations and civil actions brought by the Attorney General.

Does the Law Prohibit All Cooperation with ICE?

The regulation does not prohibit cooperation between local police and federal authorities in criminal investigations. The central difference is between criminal offenses and civil immigration violations. For example, a local agency can still collaborate with federal investigators in a homicide case or a human trafficking charge.

It must also comply with court orders, search warrants, and other legal proceedings required by law. ICE retains its federal powers to investigate and detain individuals under national immigration law. Therefore, immigrants should not interpret the reform as a guarantee against all federal operations. The main change is that local police will not be able to function as an extension of ICE in civil cases.

What Limits Does It Establish for Detention Centers?

The law also restricts the use of municipal funds to build, operate, or benefit private immigration detention centers. Companies seeking to develop such facilities must undergo a public review and citizen participation process. That process requires public notice with at least 180 days’ advance warning.

Additionally, a minimum of 2 meetings must be held to receive comments from residents. Municipalities can establish more stringent requirements through their local zoning regulations. The legislation allows exceptions for hospitals and health centers that serve individuals in custody. It also contemplates certain activities related to minors supervised by the Office of Refugee Resettlement.

What Should Immigrants in New York Know?

The new law may influence some families’ decision to report crimes or request police assistance. However, it does not eliminate the risk of a federal detention carried out directly by ICE. Immigrants should distinguish between local police and federal agents tasked with enforcing immigration laws.

The Office of Migrant Trust will receive complaints and investigate potential violations of state law. The office can review documents, interview witnesses, issue subpoenas, and file civil lawsuits. New York must also comply with court decisions, even when they affect individuals with immigration issues.

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