Statement from MOIA Commissioner Faiza N. Ali on Federal Court Dismissing Lawsuit Against New York City’s Sanctuary Laws

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: October 15, 2026
Contact: Benjamin Fang-Estrada, bfang@moia.nyc.gov 

NEW YORK – New York City Mayor’s Office of Immigrant Affairs Commissioner Faiza N. Ali today released the following statement after a federal judge dismissed the federal government’s lawsuit challenging New York City’s sanctuary laws:

“For decades, New York City’s sanctuary laws have helped build trust between immigrant New Yorkers and their local government. These local laws are essential to ensuring that all New Yorkers can access critical public services, including health care, housing and public education, without fear. At a time when federal immigration enforcement is destabilizing and separating families and putting communities across the five boroughs at risk, defending these protections has never been more important.  

“Today’s ruling is a win for New York City and immigrant New Yorkers. It affirms our right to determine how to best use resources to serve and protect our communities. The federal government’s attempt to undermine our laws has been rejected, and we will not back down from our commitment to protecting our immigrant neighbors. The Mayor’s Office of Immigrant Affairs will keep working to ensure immigrant New Yorkers know their rights, can access trusted support and have the opportunity to live with safety and dignity.”

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