Immigration (Sanctuary Policies)

This bill, the "Paid Leave for Immigration Hearings Act" (A 9109), allows New York employees to use their existing accrued paid sick leave for immigration court appearances or preparation, covering both the employee and their family members. It expands the state's labor law to specifically include immigration proceedings as a valid reason for taking sick leave, without requiring employers to know confidential details about the case. Employers must grant this leave upon request and cannot demand disclosure of immigration-related information as a condition for providing it. The law applies to all covered employers in New York and takes effect 180 days after enactment.

This bill requires New York state agencies to develop guidance for facilities and programs they oversee (like shelters, community centers, or social services programs) on how to handle requests from federal immigration authorities seeking access to people or records. The key provision mandates that state agencies create clear protocols for staff to follow when federal agents ask for information about individuals residing at or participating in these facilities. The guidance must help facilities respond appropriately while protecting individuals' privacy and rights during such interactions. This applies directly to all state-run or state-funded facilities and programs that serve the public.

Creates the "Dignity for Immigrants in New York State Act", prohibiting detention of individuals based only on the violation of federal immigration laws.

Prohibits immigration enforcement in school settings; prohibits all public and charter schools from allowing law enforcement officials inside school property to access a student, except to address an imminent safety situation or if they have an appropriate judicial warrant or judicial order.