Trump Administration intensifies legal actions against New York’s immigration policies
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On February 12, 2025, the Trump Administration filed a lawsuit against the state of New York, challenging its sanctuary policies that allegedly impede federal immigration enforcement efforts. Attorney General Pam Bondi announced the legal action, asserting that New York’s practices endanger public safety by prioritising undocumented immigrants over citisens.
The lawsuit specifically targets New York’s “Green Light Law”, which permits undocumented immigrants to obtain driver’s licenses and restricts the sharing of personal information with federal authorities without a judicial order. Bondi emphasized that such policies would no longer be tolerated, stating, “New York’s prioritisation of illegal aliens over its own citizens will end.”
In response, Governor Kathy Hochul defended the state’s stance, highlighting the balance between security and privacy that the law aims to achieve. She postponed a scheduled meeting with President Trump following the lawsuit’s announcement.
This legal action is part of a broader effort by the Trump administration to challenge sanctuary policies in various states. A similar lawsuit was recently filed against Illinois, signaling the administration’s intent to enforce federal immigration laws more stringently. The lawsuit has intensified tensions between federal and state authorities, with New York officials and immigrant advocacy groups expressing strong opposition. Critics argue that the administration’s actions undermine state sovereignty and instill fear within immigrant communities.
As the legal battle unfolds, it underscores the ongoing national debate over immigration policy and the balance of power between federal and state governments.
