Bill > S03657

This bill proposes a constitutional amendment to regulate how state entities and law enforcement handle immigration status inquiries and information disclosure. The bill defines key terms like "state entity" (government agencies and boards controlled by the governor), "noncitizen" (non-US citizens), and "illegal activity" (criminal offenses, explicitly excluding undocumented status itself as an illegal activity). It restricts state officers and employees from inquiring about immigration status except when necessary to determine program eligibility or when required by law. Law enforcement officers are specifically prohibited from asking about immigration status unless investigating a relevant illegal activity, and they cannot use resources to detect or apprehend individuals solely for civil immigration offenses. The bill also prevents state employees from disclosing information to federal immigration authorities for civil enforcement purposes, unless legally required. Importantly, law enforcement cannot take police action against an individual simply because of their undocumented status, and this protection extends to situations where individuals are seeking assistance, reporting as crime victims, or serving as witnesses. The proposed amendment would be submitted to voters for approval during the 2025 general election.

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https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S3657