Bill > S07960

This bill, known as the State Airport Facilities Enforcing Accountability in Immigration Removals (SAFE AIR) Act, aims to prevent state agencies and local governments from contracting with airlines that transport individuals detained by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) without proper due process rights. Specifically, the bill requires that for an airline to be eligible for state contracts and fuel tax exemptions, it must only transport detainees when a valid judicial warrant has been issued by a federal judge or magistrate (not an administrative immigration detainer) and when the individuals have been afforded all applicable due process rights, including the right to counsel and a hearing before an immigration judge. The legislation is designed to protect civil liberties and ensure that state resources are not used to facilitate deportations that may infringe on constitutional rights. The bill emphasizes that it does not seek to regulate immigration or interfere with federal enforcement authority, but rather to exercise the state's proprietary control over airport operations and public fund allocation. If an airline is found in violation, the attorney general may bring an action to enforce the provisions, potentially seeking injunctive relief or civil penalties. The bill will take effect 90 days after becoming law.

Budget and Finance

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S7960