So much for the bromance, Mamdani signs order to strengthen New York’s sanctuary city protections, targeting ICE

New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani has just signed a major new executive order intended to supercharge the city’s existing sanctuary protections and severely limit the operational reach of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). He called it a broad and sweeping reaffirmation of the city’s commitment to protecting its immigrant residents.

Despite a surprisingly cordial meeting and relationship with President Trump, Mamdani has always been steadfast in his stand against ICE. This bill is a direct consequence of allegations against ICE of misconduct and the use of excessive force. According to Newsweek, Mamdani was clear about his reasoning, declaring that ICE “is more than a rogue agency—it is a manifestation of the abuse of power.” 

So, what exactly does this new directive do? It’s all about protecting data and physical access. Under Mamdani’s order, all city agencies must safeguard personal information collected for city purposes and limit cooperation with federal immigration authorities. This is a critical security measure, and it’s great to see data protection being prioritized. To ensure compliance, each agency has just 14 days to appoint a dedicated privacy officer and take other necessary steps.

The order goes beyond privacy

It also bars ICE agents from entering any city-controlled properties without a judicial warrant. That means facilities like schools, hospitals, shelters, and even city parking structures are off-limits for unannounced enforcement actions. 

Furthermore, major departments like the New York Police Department, the Department of Correction, the Department of Probation, the Administration for Children’s Services, and the Department of Social Services are now directed to audit their internal policies regarding interactions with federal immigration authorities and make any necessary changes public.

Mamdani stated that the “order that will strengthen our city’s protection of our fellow New Yorkers from abusive immigration enforcement,” he said. Accompanying the executive order, the mayor launched a robust multi language “Know Your Rights” campaign, aimed at teaching residents what to do if ICE comes for them.

Murad Awawdeh, the president and CEO of the New York Immigration Coalition, praised the order, saying it will help New York become a city where every resident can live in safety and dignity. Lisa Rivera, the president and CEO of New York Legal Assistance Group, also applauded the Mayor for reaffirming the city’s commitment to protect its immigrant neighbors.

However, the DHS isn’t happy about the bill. Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin claims that Mamdani’s policy will actually make New Yorkers less safe, specifically calling out the 7,113 criminal illegal aliens in New York custody, citing their alleged crimes. It’s a serious counterpoint, but the city seems committed to its course, viewing this order as essential for upholding sanctuary laws.