A new law restricting cooperation between local police and federal immigration authorities has taken effect across New York State, setting up a fresh clash over immigration enforcement and the role of local law enforcement.
The measure, known as the “Local Cops, Local Crimes Act,” prohibits state and local governments, police departments and correctional agencies from entering into or maintaining agreements that allow their personnel or facilities to be used for civil immigration enforcement. The restrictions specifically target arrangements such as the federal 287(g) program, through which local officers can be authorized to perform certain immigration-enforcement functions on behalf of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).
The law does not prohibit cooperation with federal authorities on criminal investigations. Instead, state officials say its purpose is to keep local police focused on conventional public-safety responsibilities rather than using local personnel and resources to enforce federal civil immigration laws.
The change has immediate consequences for several law-enforcement agencies that previously maintained agreements with ICE. New York officials identified 12 agencies that were required to terminate such arrangements, prompting opposition from several county sheriffs who argue that cooperation with federal immigration authorities can contribute to public safety.
The debate has been particularly significant on Long Island, where Nassau County had previously expanded its cooperation with ICE. In 2025, Nassau officials announced a program under which 10 county police detectives would be cross-designated to assist ICE with targeted immigration-enforcement operations.
Supporters of the new law argue that separating local policing from civil immigration enforcement can strengthen trust between immigrant communities and police, making residents more willing to report crimes or cooperate with investigations.
Opponents, including some county sheriffs, contend that Albany is unnecessarily limiting cooperation between different levels of law enforcement. Some have questioned the law’s constitutionality or explored possible legal challenges, even while acknowledging their obligation to comply with it.
The dispute reflects a broader national divide over immigration enforcement and the extent to which states and local governments should participate in federal immigration policy. In New York, the new restrictions now establish a clearer boundary: local police can continue cooperating with federal agencies on criminal matters, but formal arrangements that turn local resources toward civil immigration enforcement are prohibited.
