PBA Publishes Concerns Over Proposed Safety and Dignity for All Act

The Police Chiefs Association of Rockland County, Rockland County PBA, Town of Haverstraw  PBA, and Town of Ramapo PBA are aware of proposed legislation that would restrict or prohibit  cooperation between a local law enforcement agency in Rockland County and federal law  enforcement partners, including U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). 

Law enforcement agencies throughout Rockland County have a long-standing history of working  collaboratively with one another and with our partners at the county, state, and federal levels.  This coordinated approach has been essential to effective policing and has played a significant  role in maintaining public safety across our communities. As a county, Rockland has benefited  from this cooperation and, as a result, has avoided many of the challenges experienced in other  municipalities across the country. 

Local police departments know their communities. Our officers understand the unique needs,  concerns, and dynamics of the neighborhoods they serve and rely on communication, trust, and  professional discretion to resolve situations safely and peacefully whenever possible. The ability  for local law enforcement to coordinate with all appropriate partners, without unnecessary  restrictions, allows incidents to be handled responsibly and in a manner that prioritizes both  public safety and community trust. 

The proposed legislation, if enacted, risks disrupting effective and long-established partnerships  that support officer safety and the successful resolution of complex incidents that often cross  municipal and jurisdictional boundaries. Limiting lawful cooperation between agencies may  result in unintended consequences that negatively impact public safety throughout Rockland  County. 

Together, we remain committed to constitutional policing, professionalism, and the fair and  respectful treatment of all individuals. We believe that public safety policies should be informed  by the experience and expertise of local law enforcement professionals and should preserve the  tools necessary to protect the communities we serve. 

We stand united in our willingness to engage in constructive dialogue with elected officials and  community leaders to ensure that any legislative action strengthens public safety, preserves  effective partnerships, and allows law enforcement in Rockland County to continue serving our  residents in a safe, responsible, and effective manner.