The U.S. Justice Department has sued New York state officials, including Governor Kathy Hochul, over alleged failures to enforce federal immigration laws, Attorney General Pam Bondi announced Wednesday.
The lawsuit targets New York’s “Green Light Law,” which prevents the state from sharing vehicle and address data with federal immigration authorities. It names Attorney General Letitia James and DMV head Mark Schroeder as defendants. Filed in federal court in Albany, the suit argues the law violates the U.S. Constitution’s Supremacy Clause, which ensures federal law overrides conflicting state laws. The DOJ seeks a court order blocking New York from enforcing the law.
Bondi criticized the law for limiting cooperation with federal immigration enforcement, particularly a “tip-off provision” requiring the DMV to notify individuals when federal agents request their information. “This is a new DOJ, and we are taking steps to protect Americans,” she said. “New York has chosen to prioritize illegal aliens over American citizens.”
Attorney General James vowed to defend the law. “Our state laws protect the rights of all New Yorkers and keep our communities safe,” she stated.
This lawsuit follows a similar DOJ case against Illinois over its TRUST Act, a sanctuary law alleged to interfere with federal enforcement. Bondi warned other states: “Strike one was Illinois. Strike two is New York. If you’re not complying with federal law, you’re next.”
Under the Trump administration, the DOJ has prioritized immigration enforcement. Before Bondi’s confirmation, federal prosecutors were ordered to pursue immigration cases aggressively, including possible criminal charges against state and local officials. However, no such charges have been filed yet.
Also read: Monty the Giant Schnauzer Wins Westminster’s Best in Show
