New York Governor Kathy Hochul strongly criticized a lawsuit led by Attorney General Pam Bondi and the Department of Justice challenging the state’s immigration laws. Hochul called the legal action a publicity stunt, emphasizing that New York’s policies—allowing federal immigration officials access to DMV records only with a judicial warrant—have been upheld by the courts. She reaffirmed New York’s commitment to protecting residents’ privacy while welcoming law-abiding immigrants who contribute to the economy. Rejecting federal overreach, Hochul declared that the state will not back down against what she views as a politically motivated attack.
Statement From NY Governor Kathy Hochul
“Earlier today, Attorney General Pam Bondi marched in front of the television cameras for a dramatic media briefing to announce she was filing charges against New York State related to our immigration laws. Hours later, when legal papers were shared with reporters, we learned this was smoke and mirrors: the Department of Justice was filing a routine civil action about a law passed in 2019 that has been upheld by the courts time and again.
“Here are the facts: our current laws allow federal immigration officials to access any DMV database with a judicial warrant. That’s a common-sense approach that most New Yorkers support. But there’s no way I’m letting federal agents, or Elon Musk’s shadowy DOGE operation, get unfettered access to the personal data of any New Yorker in the DMV system like 16-year-old kids learning to drive and other vulnerable people.
“New York is proud that immigrants from across the globe come here searching for a better life — people like my grandparents who left Ireland looking for the American dream. We welcome law-abiding individuals who want to work, pay taxes and contribute to our communities, while at the same time protecting the public safety of all New Yorkers by cracking down on violent criminals.
“We expect Pam Bondi’s worthless, publicity-driven lawsuit to be a total failure, just like all the others. Let me be clear: New York is not backing down.”
February 12, 2025
Albany, NY
Sources: NY.gov , Midtown Tribune
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