Congresswoman Tenney Demands Answers from Governor Hochul on Sanctuary State Policies and Costs to New Yorkers

Washington, DC – Congresswoman Claudia Tenney (NY-24) today sent a letter to Governor Kathy Hochul demanding answers to critical questions she failed to address during her recent testimony before the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform.

On June 12, 2025, the Oversight Committee held a hearing examining the impact of sanctuary state policies. During the hearing, Rep. Tenney directly questioned Governor Hochul about the number of illegal aliens currently held in New York State’s prison system, the associated costs to taxpayers, and the effects of New York’s dangerous Green Light Law. Despite repeated inquiries, Governor Hochul has left these questions unanswered and failed to follow up as promised.

 “Governor Hochul continues to fail the people of New York by prioritizing illegal aliens over the safety, security, and financial well-being of law-abiding citizens. She couldn’t provide basic information about how many illegal aliens are in our prisons or the cost to New York taxpayers. She also failed to provide the total amount of taxpayer dollars spent on services for illegal aliens during her tenure as Governor. It’s time for Hochul to reverse New York’s reckless sanctuary policies that endanger our communities and drain public resources. I will continue to advocate for policies that put New Yorkers first,” said Congresswoman Tenney.

 Read the full text of the letter here.

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