Assemblyman Christopher Friend (R,C,I-Big Flats) vehemently opposes efforts by Assembly Majority to move forward legislation which would bar law enforcement from carrying out arrests of illegal immigrants in the New York State Unified Court System. The bill, A. 2176, would require federal law enforcement and cooperating local law enforcement to provide a judicial warrant or judicial order in order for these law enforcement officials to carry out their job apprehending an illegal immigrant.

“The Assembly Majority will seemingly go to no end to make grand political statements when picking fights with the president. New York should not be playing the role of obstructionist when it comes to federal immigration laws,” said Friend, who sits on the Committee on Local Government. “I am concerned about the over reach and the impact it would have on local governments and safety of our citizens and communities. Once again, the Assembly Majority is showing how little they care about the lives of struggling New Yorkers. We need to be focusing our energies on creating a healthier business climate, reducing costly burdens and taxes in this state, and fostering opportunities where New Yorkers can thrive.”

Language in the bill would also bar local law enforcement if they cooperate with the federal government to enforce immigration laws. Additionally, legislation would allow for civil prosecution to be brought forth for violations of the bill, essentially allowing an illegal immigrant or the attorney general to sue federal law enforcement.