Albany, NY (WRGB) — With federal deportation threats escalating, advocates and lawmakers rallied at the New York State Capitol once again on Thursday to push for immediate passage of the New York for All Act during the 2026 New York State Legislative Session.
The bill, A3506B/S2235B, would set clear limits on cooperation between state and local agencies and federal immigration enforcement. Supporters say it would protect access to essential services and help ensure immigrants, regardless of immigration status, can live and work without fear.
Background: NYS Senate Majority Leader on push for NY For All progress
Advocates say the legislation would also prevent both formal and informal collusion with federal immigration authorities and prohibit the use of state and local resources and taxpayer dollars to advance federal immigration crackdowns.
The push comes as Gov. Kathy Hochul has recently introduced the “Local Cops, Local Crimes Act.” Supporters of the New York for All Act are concerned that the Governor’s proposal would only ban formal 287(g) agreements between local law enforcement and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, and that those protections would expire after three years. They argue New Yorkers should not have to rely on temporary protections or legislation with expiration dates.
Supporters say passing the New York for All Act would protect immigrant families from formal and informal collusion, preserve community trust, and ensure taxpayer dollars are used to serve New Yorkers rather than advance federal crackdowns.
“New York cannot and will not be an arm of a cruel federal deportation machine. We refuse to let our local police be weaponized against immigrant families and New York communities. At a moment when ICE is terrorizing and killing people across the country, Albany must act with courage to ensure the public safety of all New Yorkers. Passing New York for All is a moral imperative to protect our neighbors, defend our values, and make clear that in New York, we stand for dignity and justice for all,” said Murad Awawdeh, president and CEO of the New York Immigration Coalition.