What We Know So Far 

As part of a recent bill and Executive Budget proposal by New York State Governor Kathy Hochul, the Local Cops, Local Crimes Act is meant to limit and prohibit any local law enforcement agency in New York from working in tandem with ICE or any other federal agency or entity in any contractual or service agreement capacity.  

According to this section of the Bill, “It is the policy of New York State to promote public safety for all New Yorkers, including immigrants, who are vital and respected residents of our State. The current federal administration has enforced federal immigration laws with unprecedented aggression and heavy-handed tactics without concern for individual rights, community safety, and the rule of law.” 

At McBean Law, we are committed to helping all New Yorkers, as well as our clients nationwide, understand the shifting legal and political landscape and staunchly defend their constitutional rights and provide legal assistance in the face of ICE initiatives. The Local Cops, Local Crimes Act, would be a step in the right direction. 

What is the Main Purpose of This Act? 

It aims to stop 287(g) agreements in the State of New York. Passage of this act would ensure police focus on local public safety and prevent local jails and police from being used for federal immigration operations.  It will also bar the use of local detention facilities for civil immigration enforcement, mass raids, or detainee transportation. 

What is a 287(g) Agreement?  

As of early 2026, roughly 12 to 14 law enforcement agencies in New York State, including in Nassau and Niagara counties, have active 287(g) agreements with ICE, allowing local officers to perform federal immigration duties. 

The agreement is a point of contention within the state, with some local officials (e.g., in Nassau County) actively collaborating with federal authorities, while state-level, immigrant-led, and civil rights groups fight to end the practice. 

Why is This Important for New Yorkers? 

State officials say the legislation is designed to keep local law enforcement focused on local public safety priorities while protecting constitutional rights. 

It also ensures that local, taxpayer-funded law enforcement personnel are not diverted from investigating local crimes to enforce federal civil immigration violations. 

• Warrant Requirement  – It requires federal officers to obtain and present a judicial warrant to enter sensitive locations, including homes, for enforcement. 

• Scale and Scope of this Act  – The Act applies to local law enforcement but does not prevent them from assisting with criminal investigations. 

• Cooperation Will Still Exist for Criminal Investigations  – State officials emphasized that the legislation does not prohibit cooperation between state or local law enforcement and federal authorities in criminal investigations, but instead prevents local agencies from being used for civil immigration enforcement operations. 

Why Now?  

The initiative was introduced as part of the 2026 State of the State proposals, supported by various law enforcement officials and prosecutors, to increase trust between police and immigrant communities 

This sentiment was echoed by Albany County District Attorney, Lee Kindlon, “Public trust isn’t separate from public safety – it’s essential to it. When any member of our community is afraid to call the police, we all become less safe.” 

We’re Here to Help  

The right to citizenship should not be subject to instability, political whims, or bureaucratic overreach. At McBean Law, we are deeply committed to defending the rights of naturalized Americans facing this political crossfire. Simultaneously, we believe the government must uphold fundamental and universally acknowledged constitutional principles. If you’re facing a denaturalization threat – or simply want peace of mind – contact us today for a private consultation.   

At McBean Law, we help clients nationwide navigate the complex world of U.S. immigration law with confidence, compassion, and clarity. Led by Attorney LaToya McBean Pompy, a nationally recognized immigration attorney and 2024, 2025, & 2026 honoree of Best Lawyers: Ones to Watch®, McBean Law brings unmatched experience in both federal policy and courtroom advocacy. Before founding the firm in 2016, Attorney McBean Pompy worked in various roles within the U.S. Department of Justice, U.S. Congress, and both federal and state courts.    

Schedule a consultation with us by calling (914) 898-9488 to get experienced legal support for your immigration journey. Follow us on YouTube, TikTok, Instagram, and Facebook for more resources and updates.       

FAQ’s  

1. What’s Next?  

Committee reviews. The bill has been introduced and requires committee approval before a floor vote. It is part of the 2026-2027 state budget considerations. After review and legislative negotiations, it is expected to pass sometime between February and April 2026.  

2. What is the current status of the proposal among the state law enforcement community? 

As of February 2026, the proposal has gained support from various district attorneys, sheriffs, and police chiefs across New York. 

3. What can you do in the meantime?   

While waiting for this bill to pass, we recommend that you keep dated notes. Also, capture and collect any digital evidence of any violations of your civil rights. Stay vigilant. Stay alert. Stay informed. Contact McBean Law at 914-898-9488 if you have any questions or concerns.