Federal court denies bid to block NY’s ban on 287(g) ICE partnerships

On August 3, 2026, New York Governor Kathy Hochul and Attorney General Letitia James issued a statement after a federal judge in the Northern District of New York denied the U.S. government’s request for a preliminary injunction. That request would have temporarily blocked New York’s ban on 287(g) agreements.

The 287(g) program allows certain local law enforcement agencies to enter agreements with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). Under New York’s policy, those agreements are banned, and the state argues that local police should focus on local public safety rather than immigration enforcement.

In their statement, Hochul and James said they believe New York’s ban is legal and that it will keep communities safe. They also said New York taxpayers should not have to pay for collaboration with ICE through these agreements.

The officials also noted that the court previously enjoined enforcement of New York’s “mask ban.” They said their offices are reviewing legal options related to that broader situation, while continuing to oppose the federal government’s effort to stop the 287(g) ban.

This update affects the ongoing legal fight over whether New York can prevent local agencies from partnering with ICE under 287(g). For the most accurate details on the court’s reasoning and what is currently in effect, readers should check the official court order and the state’s statement on the governor’s website.