(WHITE PLAINS, NY) With a room packed full of supporters, legislators met with Deputy County Executive Kevin Plunkett, Commissioners from the Departments of Social Services, Corrections, Public Safety, & Probation, and immigration advocates to discuss the Immigrant Protection Act. At the end of the meeting, legislators agreed to work diligently to make any needed revisions to the bill in the coming week. A full vote on the Act is anticipated to take place at the next Board of Legislators meeting.

The act, introduced by Majority Leader Catherine Borgia, the Democratic Caucus, and Legislator Virginia Perez in February, simply aims to restrict Westchester County from using its financial and human resources on immigration enforcement, which is rightfully the responsibility of the Federal government.

“Yesterday, we took a major step toward passing this legislation that will help all residents in Westchester County,” said Majority Leader Catherine Borgia (D-Ossining). “Thanks to all of our Department Commissioners who came to the committee table with valid concerns and practical solutions to this legislation that will help provide public safety for all Westchester residents. I look forward to working with them in the coming week to iron out our minor differences in advance of a final vote on July 17th,” concluded Borgia.

Studies show that 45% of Latinos, regardless of their immigration status, are less likely to report a crime because they are afraid the police will ask them about their immigration status.

“This bill does not prohibit the County from complying with federal orders, it’s a bill that allocates Westchester County taxpayers’ resources and personnel to be used strictly for Westchester County purposes. Local municipalities all across Westchester are passing resolutions in support of this policy and it’s past time we as a County do the same,” said Legislator Ben Boykin (D-White Plains), Chair of the Committee on Public Safety & Social Services.

“The drafting of this bill has included countless hours of hard work from many dedicated immigration advocates & activists. I look forward to our continued work together to get the Immigrant Protection Act over the finish line,” concluded Borgia.