New York Governor Kathy Hochul delivered a blow to the table Friday by signing a legislative package that promises to change the rules of the game for the immigrant community.
Under the argument of curbing a “blatant abuse of power,” the state now prohibits Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) from conducting raids in “sensitive locations” without a signed court order.
New York bans ICE in schools and churches
🎥| New York Governor Kathy Hochul just BANNED masks for ICE agents immediately after a leftist activist vowed to kill federal agents and their families.
The protester literally shouted: “I HAVE YOUR FACE…. I’m going to… pic.twitter.com/aDxNwXm08X
– Claro y Directo (@ClaroyDirecto_) May 29, 2026
As of today, sites that are considered sanctuaries or community pillars – such as schools, churches, courthouses and community centers – are off-limits to immigration agents unless specifically authorized by a judge.
“We will not allow this abuse to continue on our streets,” Hochul told activists and immigrant families.
The measure seeks to restore peace of mind to parents who were afraid to take their children to school or attend religious services due to the presence of federal agents.
No more face-covering: No more scare tactics
New York Governor Kathy Hochul signs a series of laws aimed at protecting the immigrant community and curbing “blatant abuse of power” by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).https://t.co/7JISI2okDV
– EFE News (@EFEnoticias) May 29, 2026
One of the most controversial and celebrated points of the new law is the total ban on the use of masks or ski masks by law enforcement officers in New York.
The governor denounced that, unlike the FBI or the DEA who use tactical equipment out of technical necessity, ICE agents have been covering their faces for the sole purpose of “intimidating and threatening” the civilian population.
In addition, New York has terminated the 287(g) covenants.
This means that local police will no longer do ICE’s “dirty work”.
“I want our police officers focused on local crime, not doing civilian immigration work,” she emphasized.
This battery of laws escalates the tension between Albany and Washington.
Hochul held nothing back, calling the Donald Trump administration’s policies “cruel,” positioning New York as the main bastion of resistance to the mass deportation orders coming from the capital.
Filed under: New York bans ICE in schools and churches
