The Department of Justice has launched legal action against New York, arguing that the state’s immigration policies obstruct federal enforcement. The lawsuit, announced Wednesday by Attorney General Pam Bondi, targets Gov. Kathy Hochul, Attorney General Letitia James, and DMV Commissioner Mark Schroeder.
At the center of the lawsuit is the Green Light Law, which allows illegal immigrants to obtain driver’s licenses while preventing federal agencies from accessing state DMV records. The law also mandates that illegal immigrants be notified when federal officials request their information. The DOJ claims this obstructs immigration enforcement and undermines national security.
Bondi cited a recent case against Illinois, emphasizing that states will be held accountable for failing to comply with federal law. She stated that the administration is prioritizing efforts to remove legal roadblocks that prevent authorities from enforcing immigration laws effectively.
New York leaders have defended the law, arguing that it protects immigrant communities from discrimination. However, critics claim it makes it more difficult for law enforcement to identify individuals and conduct proper background checks.
Former President Joe Biden’s administration previously allowed states to maintain sanctuary policies, but the Trump administration has made clear that it will not tolerate state-level interference with immigration enforcement.
This lawsuit marks the latest in a series of federal efforts to challenge state laws that shield illegal immigrants, with officials suggesting that additional legal action against other states could follow.
