East Hampton adopts local law on immigration-related enforcement, supporters say it clarifies procedures and protects trust

The East Hampton Village Board on April 22 unanimously adopted a local law adding Chapter 212 to the village code to establish procedures around immigration-related enforcement activities, officials said.

Supporters from OLA of Eastern Long Island urged the board to act. "We are very happy with this law," said Manurva Perez, executive director of OLA of Eastern Long Island, thanking trustees for strengthening the proposal. Perez said the measure will help restore trust between residents and local police.

"This law is not about hindering federal enforcement. It is about protecting the integrity of our local community and the safety of every person who lives here," said Eric Aadia, legal advocate at OLA and an immigrant from the local community. He said the measure responds to confusion and fear during federal operations and to reports of unidentified people claiming to be law enforcement.

Emily La Persio, advocacy support at OLA, said the law "establishes clear and reasonable procedures to ensure transparency, accountability, and continued access to essential public services" when immigration enforcement occurs locally. Andres Espinosa, OLA director of finance and a parent of local schoolchildren, said the measure will protect access to schools and other public places.

Trustees moved and seconded Resolution No. 182 to adopt Introductory No. 3. The motion carried unanimously. Mayor Jerry Larson thanked advocates and village staff and said the law "clarifies what [the village's] commitment to safety means" and aims to preserve community trust; the mayor also acknowledged Police Chief Jeff Ericson’s support, noting the chief was not present.

The board framed the action as a local clarification of procedures rather than a limit on federal authority. The law’s language, as presented at the hearing, is intended to promote transparency and peace while preserving public safety. Supporters repeatedly emphasized that the measure does not seek to obstruct federal enforcement but to provide clear local protocols.

The board set additional public hearings for other proposed local laws on May 15, 2026. The meeting moved into executive session after the April 22 votes.

Why it matters: Advocates told the board the measure addresses fear in immigrant communities that can deter reporting crimes, and supporters said clear local protocols protect both residents and local law enforcement. The unanimous vote signals the board’s immediate willingness to adopt the clarified procedures.

What happens next: The local law now takes effect according to the village’s administrative schedule for local laws; the board also scheduled further hearings on other code changes for May 15, 2026.