Attorney General Pam Bondi announced that the Department of Justice has filed a lawsuit against New York state officials, including Governor Kathy Hochul, Attorney General Letitia James, and DMV Commissioner Mark Schroeder. The lawsuit alleges that these officials have enacted policies that shield illegal immigrants from federal immigration enforcement, violating federal law and endangering public safety.
At the center of the lawsuit is New York’s “Green Light Law,” which allows illegal immigrants to obtain driver’s licenses while restricting the Department of Motor Vehicles from sharing applicant information with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and other federal agencies. Bondi argues that this law obstructs immigration enforcement and prioritizes illegal immigrants over American citizens. She stated, “New York’s reckless policies are putting Americans at risk by making it easier for dangerous criminals, gang members, and human traffickers to evade justice.”
New York officials, including Hochul and James, have defended the law, claiming that it enhances public safety by ensuring that all drivers, regardless of immigration status, are licensed and insured. They argue that cooperation with ICE discourages immigrants from reporting crimes, which could undermine law enforcement efforts. “This law protects all residents and ensures safer roads,” James said in response to the lawsuit.
Bondi, however, contends that New York’s policies undermine federal authority and pose a significant threat to national security. She emphasized that sanctuary-style policies have allowed violent criminals to avoid deportation and remain in the U.S., despite serious offenses. The lawsuit is part of a broader federal crackdown on sanctuary cities and states that refuse to cooperate with immigration enforcement.
This legal action follows similar moves by the Trump administration against jurisdictions with sanctuary policies. The Department of Justice has also taken legal action against states like California and Illinois, as well as cities such as Chicago and San Francisco, for implementing policies that limit cooperation with ICE. Bondi warned that any state failing to comply with federal immigration laws would face similar consequences.
The case is expected to set a major precedent regarding the balance of power between state and federal authorities on immigration enforcement. If successful, the lawsuit could dismantle New York’s Green Light Law and potentially lead to further rollbacks of sanctuary policies across the country. As the legal battle unfolds, the outcome could have significant implications for immigration policy nationwide.
