Federal Lawsuit Targets New York’s “Green Light” law

The Trump administration has escalated its legal battles with states over deportations by suing New York on Wednesday.The lawsuit accuses state officials of prioritizing “illegal aliens over American citizens,” specifically citing New York’s “green light” law, which allows individuals to obtain driver’s licenses irrespective of citizenship or legal status.

“It stops,” saeid Attorney general pam Bondi. “It stops today.”

Pam Bondi, Attorney General

The lawsuit, filed in federal court in Albany, alleges that New York state law requires state authorities to notify individuals when federal immigration agencies request their data, which the administration considers a “frontal assault on federal immigration laws.”

New York Governor Defends State’s Position

Governor Kathy Hochul’s office has stated that the state supports the deportation of violent criminals but does not believe law-abiding individuals should be targeted. Hochul noted that federal immigration officials can access any DMV database with a judicial warrant, a stance she believes is supported by most New Yorkers.

“Our current laws allow federal immigration officials to access any D.M.V. database with a judicial warrant. That’s a common-sense approach that most New yorkers support.”

Gov. Kathy Hochul

Molly Biklen, the interim legal director of the New York Civil Liberties Union, criticized the lawsuit, calling it “a gross intrusion into New york’s constitutional right to legislate in areas traditionally within its concern.”

Broader Implications and legal Battles

The lawsuit against New York is part of a broader effort by the federal government to enforce Mr. Trump’s immigration agenda. Similar challenges have been filed against Democratic officials in Illinois, while cities in California, Oregon, and Connecticut have sued the administration over funding denials for non-compliance with immigration enforcement demands.

The dispute highlights the tension between state and federal laws, with immigration and deportation being a federal obligation. States and cities frequently pass laws to reassure residents that cooperation with local authorities will not alert immigration officials.

“If you are a state not complying with federal law,you’re next,get ready,” said Attorney General Bondi. “This is a new D.O.J., and we are taking steps to protect American citizens.”

Pam Bondi, Attorney General