Policy Advocacy
Fighting for, advocating for, and creating just public policies for people experiencing poverty.
NYLAG stands proudly with vulnerable communities in New York, and beyond. We believe in the power of the law to change lives, so we push to ensure that our laws are just. We work to shape laws and policies, to reform those that are discriminatory or outdated, and to create new laws when emerging needs call for them.
Our Approach
We amplify the voices of our clients by advocating for them in spaces where they may not have a seat at the table. We do this in the following ways:
- Educating policymakers about issues of poverty and the gaps in our civil justice system
- Drafting legislation, public comments, and statements
- Delivering testimony at government hearings, briefings, and other relevant spaces
- Leading and taking part in coalitions and committees that integrate our clients’ needs into policy conversations
- Marching and rallying with our clients and supporters
Policy advocacy statements, public comments, and news.
STATEMENT: NYLAG Responds to New York City’s FY 2025 Adopted Budget
As one of New York City’s largest civil legal service providers, communities throughout the five boroughs rely on NYLAG to access justice, often in a time of crisis. Our advocates work diligently to meet people where they are and make our services as accessible as possible, partnering with every client to deliver dignified, trauma-informed legal resources, counsel, and advocacy. From this perspective, we advocate for a city budget that provides us with the resources we need to increase access to justice among lower income New Yorkers, supports those communities’ broader needs, and takes an equitable approach towards cultivating racial, social, and economic justice overall.
NYLAG Responds to New York State’s FY 2025 Enacted Budget
The New York Legal Assistance Group (NYLAG) released a statement in response to New York State’s enacted budget for Fiscal Year 2025.
NYLAG Immigrant Protection Unit Co-Director Melissa Chua Testifies Before the NYC Council on the Preliminary Budget for FY 2025
Melissa Chua, Co-Director of NYLAG’s Immigrant Protection Unit, testified before the New York City Council’s Committee on Immigration regarding the Preliminary Budget for Fiscal Year 2025, the Preliminary Capital Plan for Fiscal Years 2024-2028, and the Fiscal 2024 Preliminary Mayor’s Management Report.
