Albany, NY - The New York State Assembly today passed the Public Protection and General Government (PPGG) budget bill, including language from the New York Civil Rights Act, sponsored by Assemblymember Gabriella A. Romero (D, WFP - Albany, New Scotland, Guilderland). The legislation creates a state cause of action allowing New Yorkers to sue for damages in state court when their federal Constitutional rights are violated by government actors.

Also included in the PPGG bill is the “Local Cops, Local Crimes Act,” which limits 287(g) agreements that empower local or state officials to collaborate with federal immigration agencies, ensuring that ICE is unable to deputize local police departments for the purpose of immigration enforcement. Further public safety measures include language to prohibit law enforcement from wearing masks or personal disguises while interacting with the public, and defines “sensitive locations” that are outside of the jurisdiction of immigration officers, such as schools, places of worship, mental health centers, and homeless shelters.

Assemblymember Gabriella A. Romero (D, WFP - Albany, Guilderland, New Scotland): “No one is above the law or the U.S. Constitution – including and especially those acting under the authority of the government. Far too often, New Yorkers have been left feeling powerless when the government officials who are supposed to protect and serve them violate their rights. These budget provisions are about making sure people have the tools to hold ICE and any other government actors accountable for civil rights abuses and to seek justice in state court, our most accessible court. We are creating true public safety in our communities, ensuring that no New Yorker has to live in fear. This is a historic moment in New York, and I am proud to be part of it.”