Ithaca on DHS Sanctuary List: What Residents Need to Know

On May 30, 2025, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) released a list of sanctuary jurisdictions, which included the City of Ithaca, Tompkins County, and New York State. These jurisdictions have enacted legislation that limits local law enforcement’s cooperation with federal immigration authorities. The DHS list was compiled following an April 28 executive order from the Trump administration, directing federal officials to “pursue all necessary legal remedies and enforcement measures” against sanctuary jurisdictions to bring them into compliance with federal laws.

In response to the DHS announcement, City Manager Deb Mohlenhoff stated that as of the morning after the list’s publication, city leaders had not received any formal notification from the federal government regarding Ithaca’s inclusion on the list or any directives to alter the city’s policies. The City of Ithaca receives approximately $25 million annually in federal aid, and Tompkins County receives a similar amount. While the DHS announcement did not specify potential consequences for non-compliance, previous statements from President Trump have included threats to cut federal funding to jurisdictions that do not enforce federal immigration laws or cooperate with immigration enforcement.

Ithaca’s sanctuary city status dates back to 1985, with significant reaffirmations and expansions in 2017 and earlier in 2025. Tompkins County adopted similar sanctuary ordinances in 2017. At the state level, New York has a patchwork of sanctuary laws, though Governor Kathy Hochul has indicated a willingness to cooperate with federal immigration enforcement in cases involving individuals who commit crimes while in the country illegally.

✅ What It Does

It Mean:

1. Political Tension with the Federal Government

   
   

   • The federal government may apply pressure or threats—such as withholding certain types of funding—aimed at encouraging local policy changes. This could affect programs that rely on federal support, such as housing, public health, or infrastructure.

   
   

2. Increased Scrutiny

   
   

   • Local law enforcement and government agencies may face added scrutiny from federal agencies. Federal immigration officials may step up enforcement efforts independently of local law enforcement cooperation.

   
   

3. Potential Legal Battles

   
   

   • The designation could lead to legal or policy showdowns between local and federal authorities, especially if funding is challenged or enforcement is escalated.

   
   

4. Public Discourse and Advocacy

   
   

   • The issue may lead to increased activism, public forums, and political engagement—both for and against sanctuary policies—impacting local elections, media coverage, and civic life.

   
   

❌ What It Does Not

 Mean (Right Now):

1. No Immediate Change in Local Policy

   
   

   • Ithaca’s and Tompkins County’s sanctuary policies remain in place. Law enforcement and government offices are not required to change how they handle immigration-related matters unless local laws are formally changed.

   
   

2. No Direct Threat to Undocumented Residents

   
   

   • While the listing may create fear among immigrant communities, it does not authorize new local enforcement actions or change current protections. Local police still do not assist federal agents with civil immigration enforcement unless mandated by law or court order.

   
   

3. No Automatic Loss of Services

   
   

   • Residents, regardless of immigration status, still have access to city services, schools, public health, and transportation. Loss of federal funding, if it happens, would take time and likely face legal challenges.

   
   

Bottom Line for Residents

• For most people, daily life continues as normal.

• The listing is more of a political signal than a policy change—for now.

• Residents concerned about their immigration status or legal rights should consult local advocacy groups or legal aid organizations for up-to-date support.

For ongoing coverage of the issue, visit IthacaVoice.org