U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi takes aim at New York’s immigration policies, announcing federal charges against state officials in a bold move that could reshape the nation’s sanctuary cities.
Key Takeaways
- Attorney General Pam Bondi announces federal lawsuit against New York over its “Green Light law”
- The lawsuit claims New York prioritizes illegal immigrants over American citizens
- New York officials, including Governor Hochul and AG James, defend the state’s policies
- Bondi warns other sanctuary jurisdictions of potential similar legal actions
- The case highlights tensions between federal immigration enforcement and state laws
DOJ Takes Aim at New York’s Immigration Policies
In a significant move, U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi has announced federal charges against New York officials, including Governor Kathy Hochul and Attorney General Letitia James, over the state’s controversial immigration policies. The lawsuit specifically targets New York’s “Green Light law,” which allows undocumented immigrants to obtain driver’s licenses and restricts the use of DMV information for immigration enforcement purposes.
During her inaugural press briefing, Bondi did not mince words, accusing New York of prioritizing illegal immigrants over American citizens. The lawsuit claims that New York’s law undermines federal immigration laws and hinders the work of federal authorities.
🚨#BreakingNews US ATTORNEY GENERAL SUES STATE OF NEW YORK, GOV. KATHY HOCHUL, AG LETITIA JAMES, AND DMV COMMISSIONER MARK SCHROEDER FOR ALLEGEDLY RESISTING ENFORCEMENT EFFORTS
AG PAM BONDI: "They have a 'tip-off' provision that requires New York's DMV commissioner to promptly… pic.twitter.com/uGKxaF0oGY
— Lynnwood Times (@LynnwoodTimes) February 13, 2025
New York Officials Defend State Policies
In response to the federal lawsuit, New York officials have staunchly defended their state’s laws. Attorney General Letitia James emphasized the importance of protecting the rights of all New Yorkers and maintaining community safety. Governor Kathy Hochul echoed these sentiments, highlighting the contributions of law-abiding individuals who seek to work and pay taxes within their communities.
“Our state laws, including the Green Light law, protect the rights of all New Yorkers and keep our communities safe.” – Letitia James
The lawsuit includes a provision requiring notification to individuals when federal immigration agencies request their information, a point of contention for the federal government. Bondi argued that this notification essentially “tips off” illegal aliens, deeming it unconstitutional.
New, longer statement from Gov. Hochul on the Trump admin lawsuit over the Green Light Law. Defends the law, and immigrant NYers "We expect Pam Bondi's worthless, publicity-driven lawsuit to be a total failure, just like all the others. " pic.twitter.com/telPhB0I8T
— rebeccaclewis.bsky.social (@_rebeccaclewis) February 13, 2025
Broader Implications for Sanctuary Jurisdictions
This legal action against New York is not an isolated incident. It follows similar lawsuits filed against Illinois and Chicago for impeding communication between local and federal law enforcement regarding immigration matters. Bondi’s strong stance suggests a renewed commitment from the Department of Justice to challenge sanctuary policies across the nation.
“New York didn’t listen, so now you’re next.” – Pam Bondi
To underscore the potential dangers of sanctuary policies, Bondi introduced Tammy Nobles, an Angel mom who lost her daughter to an MS-13 gang member who was in the country illegally. This emotional appeal aimed to highlight the human cost of not enforcing federal immigration laws.
Looking Ahead
As the legal battle unfolds, concerns have arisen about the potential use of law enforcement powers against political adversaries. The lawsuit is civil, not criminal, despite initial statements suggesting otherwise. However, some advisers to the administration have suggested the possibility of criminal charges for officials who obstruct federal deportation efforts.
Bondi expressed hope that other jurisdictions would comply with federal law to avoid further legal action. This case marks a significant escalation in the ongoing debate over immigration enforcement and states’ rights, with potential far-reaching consequences for sanctuary cities across the United States.
Sources:
- Trump administration sues New York over sanctuary policies for undocumented immigrants – POLITICO
- US justice department sues New York over immigration rules
- Attorney General Pam Bondi rails against New York leaders as she announces immigration lawsuit | AP News
- Pam Bondi Announces Charges Against Kathy Hochul, Letitia James
