On December 18, five Democratic legislators from New York joined a coalition of representatives from seven states to advance a legislative agenda that seeks to limit local cooperation with federal immigration operations and strengthen the protection of civil rights.

During a joint press conference, the officials denounced what they called as “secret police tactics” by US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), and introduced a package of bills aimed at strengthening the rule of law. One of the central pieces is the End Illegal Tactics Act (MELT), by State Senator Patricia Fahy, which would prohibit law enforcement officers from wearing masks or disguises when interacting with the public, requiring them to show their face and credentials. The initiative provides exceptions for medical masks, rescue teams, or high-risk SWAT missions, but stipulates that violators will face misdemeanor charges, in an attempt to reinforce transparency and public trust in law enforcement. Fahy argued that the actions of masked officers have eroded public trust and described scenes of arrests in broad daylight as a practice incompatible with a modern democracy, in statements made when introducing the proposal. School Protection and sensitive locations

Another key project is the Protect Our Schools Act, which restricts ICE access to educational facilities unless they have a valid court order, and also requires immediate notification of parents if an arrest occurs on a campus.

The law would also prevent schools from allocating funds or personnel to assist with the enforcement of federal immigration laws, preventing principals or security guards from having to decide on the legality of administrative orders, a task that would fail to legal advisors.

Similarly, proposal S4121 would extend protection to hospitals, churches, food banks and shelters, prohibiting warrantless civil arrests within a 300-meter radius, and enabling lawsuits for damages against detentions deemed illegal.

Assemblyman Micah Lasher argued that residents should feel safe going to the doctor or reporting crimes without fear of being arrested,noting that ICE's presence in these spaces generates fear and social isolation.

Senator Zellnor Myrie also introduced the New York Civil Rights Act, which would allow lawsuits against federal, state, or local officials for constitutional violations, including compensation for emotional distress and coverage of legal fees.

Finally, Andrew Gounardes defended his New York for All bill, which would limit the use of public resources to collaborate with ICE and require written consent before allowing interrogations, while Republican Robert Smullen spoke out against it, deeming these measures unnecessary in his district.