Sen. Gounardes: Gutting Legal Services for Unaccompanied Kids is Pure Cruelty

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: AUGUST 12, 2026
New York State Senator Andrew Gounardes issued the following statement in response to Governor Kathy Hochul’s announcement of $7.25 million in funding to provide legal services for 1,400 unaccompanied immigrant children, after the Trump Administration gutted a contract for those services:

"It's hard to imagine anything crueler than gutting legal support for unaccompanied kids, but that's exactly what the Trump Administration did. That inhumanity has been at the core of the White House's approach to immigration, and it's heartbreaking to see innocent children pay the price. That's why it's so crucial New York steps up to give these kids the resources they deserve. It's a reflection of our own values: compassion, humanity, and basic decency. Thank you to Governor Hochul for taking swift action."

Background:

For nearly two decades, the federal government has been required by law to protect immigrant children. Legal representation is necessary, as unaccompanied minors are more likely to be trafficked, abused and endangered. The Trump Administration's lack of clarity surrounding replacement contracts creates instability for thousands of children in New York and across the country, and ultimately harms vulnerable children who rely on these services.

Today, Governor Hochul announced $7.25 million in new funding to provide legal services for approximately 1,400 unaccompanied immigrant youth in New York who are facing active removal proceedings, including more than 250 children who are currently detained. The funding will help vulnerable children access legal representation following the Trump administration’s July 31 contract expiration.

Senator Gounardes has been a vocal advocate for strengthening immigrant protections, and is the prime sponsor of the ‘New York For All’ Act.

Press Contact:

Billy Richling

Communications Director

State Senator Andrew Gounardes

billy@senatorgounardes.nyc

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