East Hampton board moves to codify limits on federal immigration enforcement

East Hampton, March 20, 2026 — The East Hampton Village Board voted to set a public hearing for a proposed local law (Introductory No. 3 of 2026) that would add Chapter 212 to the village code, outlining controls and transparency measures when federal immigration authorities operate within the village.

Mayor Jerry Larrison, who introduced the measure, said he moved the law forward to "codify what our police department is already doing" and to "reassure the public that we are doing the right thing," referencing recent federal policy changes and his law‑enforcement background. The board voted to publish notice and hold the hearing on April 22, 2026.

Supporters at the meeting said the measure is intended to protect residents’ rights and public safety. "We've heard many times that people are afraid to get help," one trustee said, urging the board to assure residents they can call 911 without fear of family separation. A public commenter identified as Ola praised the board and said, "Never ever has it been a thought that local law enforcement ... have been participating and acting as ICE. Never." Ola urged transparency and community participation in oversight.

Board members and the mayor said the law will distinguish between civil and criminal immigration matters and will not expand local authority to enforce federal immigration law. Officials also described steps to reduce potential surveillance misuse: they said the village has configured its Flock camera system so data is not automatically shared with federal agencies, requires formal requests for any data, and will convene a quarterly task force of village and civilian members to audit Flock use.

The measure follows a February 2025 public information seminar the village held to address community concerns. The board characterized the proposed law as a formal statement of existing practices and an additional transparency mechanism; because the board voted unanimously to set the hearing, the ordinance will proceed to the advertised public‑hearing stage before any final local action.

Next steps: The board scheduled a public hearing for April 22, 2026 at 11:00 a.m. at the Emergency Services Building, One Cedar Street, East Hampton. Members said they expect further public comment at that hearing before the board considers final passage.