Prohibits law enforcement officers and peace officers from inquiring about the immigration status of a victim of or witness to a criminal offense.
Summary
This bill would add a new section to the Executive Law prohibiting state and local law enforcement officers, as well as peace officers, from asking about the immigration status of a victim or witness to a criminal offense. The only exception is when such an inquiry is necessary to investigate the offense. The bill defines “law enforcement officer” to include state and local police officers and defines “peace officer” by reference to the Criminal Procedure Law.
The measure is intended to limit immigration-status questioning in the context of crime reporting and investigation, with the apparent goal of reducing fear among victims and witnesses and encouraging cooperation with police. It would take effect immediately upon enactment.
Impact
The bill would amend the New York Executive Law by creating a new section 837-y, establishing a statutory restriction on immigration-status inquiries by law enforcement and peace officers. It would affect state and local police practices and any other designated peace officers under Criminal Procedure Law section 2.10, while preserving discretion to ask about immigration status when directly relevant to investigating the offense. The bill does not change immigration law itself, but it would alter how criminal investigations involving victims and witnesses are conducted in New York.
Sentiment
Based on the bill’s caption and text, the measure appears to be framed as a victim- and witness-protection policy designed to promote trust in law enforcement. No committee transcript or vote record is available, so there is no recorded debate or formal vote history to indicate broader legislative sentiment. The available materials suggest a straightforward, protective approach rather than a controversial enforcement expansion.
Contention
The main point of contention is likely the balance between encouraging immigrant victims and witnesses to come forward and preserving law enforcement’s ability to gather information during investigations. Supporters would likely emphasize public safety, reporting, and cooperation, while critics may argue that the restriction could limit investigative questioning or complicate enforcement. Because there are no transcripts or votes provided, no specific legislators or stakeholder groups are identified in the record.
Same As
Prohibits law enforcement officers and peace officers from inquiring about the immigration status of a victim of or witness to a criminal offense.