Report: Stony Brook University on list as possible spot to house asylum seekers

Gov. Kathy Hochul says the state is still exploring all options when it comes to SUNY and CUNY campuses in dorms.

News 12 Staff

May 24, 2023, 9:55 AM

Updated 331 days ago

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Stony Brook University is reportedly being considered a spot to temporarily put asylum seekers, according to a report from NY1. 
Gov. Kathy Hochul says the state is still exploring all options when it comes to SUNY and CUNY campuses in dorms. Officials say housing is desperately needed as room is running out in Manhattan to house migrants. There is a struggle to find beds for the 41,000 asylum seekers already there, and officials say more are on the way. On Tuesday, the Suffolk County Legislature introduced a measure in response to the potential arrival of migrants.
If granted, the motion would allow the Legislature to hire special counsel to explore legal options to prevent asylum seekers from entering Suffolk.
“The basic rule right now is Suffolk County, the one thing it has direct control over is the use and occupancy of county-owned or county-leased land. At the same token, the state has control over the use and occupancy of state-owned and leased facilities, and they have the ability to implement the policy they want on those lands,” says attorney Paul Sabatino.
News 12 has reached out to lawmakers in the area who say they're frustrated with the lack of communication from the governor's office.
Lawmakers say they have concerns with resources and safety and want to make sure they're addressed before decisions are made.


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