Bill > S04735

This bill, known as the "Protect Our Schools Act," aims to shield students, faculty, and staff from immigration enforcement within public and charter school settings. The legislation prohibits law enforcement officials from accessing students or inquiring about their immigration status on school grounds, with exceptions only for imminent safety situations or when presenting a valid court order or judicial warrant issued by an independent judge. The bill establishes that administrative warrants and immigration detainers are insufficient for enforcement actions, and schools are prohibited from using their resources for immigration enforcement. School personnel are barred from disclosing student immigration information to authorities and must follow specific protocols if law enforcement attempts to conduct immigration-related activities on school premises. The bill requires schools to notify parents or guardians if a student is subject to an immigration enforcement action, unless specifically prohibited by a warrant. Additionally, the state commissioner of education must develop rules and regulations to ensure compliance, including staff training and annual reporting on immigration enforcement actions affecting schools. The legislation also mandates that schools publicly post information about students' rights regarding immigration enforcement, with the ultimate goal of creating a safe and secure learning environment for all students, regardless of their immigration status.

Housing and Urban Affairs

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S4735