Senate Democrats on the Senate Investigations Committee voted down Republican-backed legislation Tuesday aimed at banning sanctuary policies that limit cooperation between local and federal immigration authorities.
The proposal, known as the NY-CARES Act and sponsored by State Sen. Dean Murray (R-East Patchogue), would have prohibited municipalities from adopting policies that “prevent or impede” coordination with federal law enforcement agencies enforcing immigration laws.
Republicans said the measure was introduced in response to sanctuary policies adopted by local governments across New York that restrict cooperation with federal immigration enforcement efforts.
“The decision to vote down the NY CARES Act sends a dangerous message that cooperation with law enforcement is optional,” Murray said in a statement following the committee vote.
Murray argued the legislation was necessary to strengthen public safety and improve coordination between local and federal authorities.
“New Yorkers expect laws to be enforced, and public safety to remain a top priority,” he said. “Policies that impede coordination with federal authorities only make it harder to keep our communities safe and create unnecessary risks for law enforcement and residents alike.”
The bill was brought before the committee after Murray made a motion for its consideration, but Democratic members voted against advancing the legislation.
Republicans also criticized Democrats over a separate measure passed a day earlier, claiming it could make it easier for undocumented immigrants to vote, though Democrats have defended their immigration-related policies as necessary to protect immigrant communities and maintain trust between residents and local law enforcement.
The NY-CARES Act is one of several immigration-related measures introduced this legislative session as debate over sanctuary policies continues statewide.