Establishes the right to legal counsel in immigration court proceedings; provides for the administration thereof.

New York Assembly Bill A00270, introduced in January 2025, aims to establish a right to legal counsel for individuals involved in immigration court proceedings. The bill proposes that income-eligible individuals detained in New York, or transferred from New York to detention in another state, who are facing removal or inspection under specific U.S. codes, would have the right to legal services. These services include consultations and ongoing legal representation provided by designated legal service providers. The bill also outlines the administration of these services through the New York State Office for New Americans.

Supporters of the bill argue that providing legal counsel to individuals in immigration proceedings ensures fair treatment and due process. They believe that legal representation can significantly impact the outcomes of such cases, potentially preventing unjust deportations and keeping families together. Advocates also suggest that this measure could set a precedent for other states to follow, promoting a more humane approach to immigration enforcement.

Critics of the bill express concerns about the financial implications of providing free legal counsel to individuals in immigration proceedings, questioning the allocation of state resources for this purpose. They argue that this could place an additional burden on taxpayers and may divert funds from other essential services. Opponents also contend that offering legal representation might encourage more individuals to enter or remain in the country without legal authorization, potentially exacerbating existing immigration challenges.