NYC Mayor Zohran Mamdani Signs Executive Order to Block “Abusive” Immigration Enforcement

Mamdani Signs Executive Order to Protect New Yorkers From “Abusive” Immigration Enforcement

NEW YORK — New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani has signed a new executive order aimed at protecting residents from what he described as “abusive immigration enforcement,” while reaffirming the city’s commitment to its long-standing sanctuary policies.

The order was signed during Friday’s Interfaith Breakfast at the New York Public Library in Bryant Park, where Mamdani addressed faith leaders from across the five boroughs and emphasized solidarity with immigrant communities.

Calling the directive “a sweeping reaffirmation of commitment to our immigrant neighbors,” Mamdani said the city would not allow fear of immigration enforcement to prevent residents from accessing essential services.

Reinforcing Sanctuary City Protections

The executive order — Mamdani’s 13th since taking office — restricts city agencies from sharing information collected for municipal purposes with federal immigration authorities, unless legally required.

Under the directive, all city agencies have 14 days to appoint a privacy officer and implement measures to ensure compliance with the new policy.

“No New Yorker should be afraid to apply for city services like child care because they are an immigrant,” Mamdani said.

The order also requires the NYPD, Department of Correction, Department of Probation, Administration for Children’s Services, and Department of Social Services to review and audit their internal policies regarding interactions with federal immigration agencies. Any changes needed to comply must be made public.

Limits on Federal Agent Access

The directive states that federal immigration agents may not enter city-owned properties — including schools, shelters, hospitals, parking facilities and other public spaces — without a valid judicial warrant.

City agencies are also instructed to train employees on how to respond to encounters with federal immigration officials, reinforcing existing protocols.

“Know Your Rights” Campaign Launched

Alongside the executive order, Mamdani announced a citywide “Know Your Rights” campaign, which will distribute more than 30,000 multilingual flyers outlining residents’ rights during interactions with immigration authorities.

The materials include guidance on remaining silent, requesting legal counsel, and asking for an interpreter.

Mamdani urged faith leaders to share the information widely, including with citizens and residents who may not believe they are at risk.

DHS Criticizes the Order

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security criticized the executive order, arguing that limiting cooperation with federal immigration enforcement would make New York City less safe.

In a statement, DHS said the policy could force federal officers to increase their visible presence in communities to locate individuals with criminal records who have been released from custody.

The department claimed there are more than 7,000 individuals with active detainers currently in New York City custody and urged city officials to cooperate with federal authorities.

Ongoing Debate

The executive order comes amid growing national debate over immigration enforcement and local government cooperation, with several cities across the region voicing opposition to federal tactics.

Mamdani’s move is expected to draw continued scrutiny from federal officials while solidifying support among immigrant advocacy groups and local faith leaders.