New York Note: City Legislation, Migrant Relocation, Rikers ICE Office

April 28, 2025

NYC Council Passes and Introduces Legislation

Last Thursday, the NYC Council convened a Stated meeting, where they passed and introduced multiple pieces of legislation. The Council passed a slate of bills aimed at protecting the rights of transgender New Yorkers. The Council also approved legislation reforming non-essential helicopter operations to address health and quality of life issues caused by their noise pollution. Legislation was introduced requiring the immediate disbursement of 80% of contract funds when the City contracts with nonprofits, and requiring agency corrective action plans for retroactive contract registration. You can find all of the legislation that was passed and introduced here.

NY Migrant Relocation Assistance Program to End

NY’s Migrant Relocation Assistance Program (MRAP) will stop relocating new families on June 15. MRAP launched in July 2023 amongst a surge in migrant arrivals, and the program helps asylum seeker families in City shelters relocate to permanent housing outside the City. Families already relocated will continue to receive MRAP assistance up to June 2026. Anthony Farmer, a spokesperson for the State Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance, stated that the program is ending because fewer migrants are arriving in NYC and seeking shelter.

Judge Blocks ICE from Re-Establishing Office on Rikers Island

Judge Mary Rosado extended a temporary restraining order barring Mayor Adams’ administration from allowing federal immigration authorities to re-establish offices on Rikers Island. NYC Council filed a lawsuit on April 15 looking to block the move. The order is extended until the next court hearing in the case, currently scheduled for May 29.

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