WOODBURY -
A 2-year-old program that provides free legal services for immigrants is being expanded with $10 million that was included in the new state budget.

The Liberty Defense Project includes rapid-response legal counsel for immigrants caught up in federal government raids and sweeps. State officials say the program is a response to the Trump administration's crackdown on immigration.

Gov. Andrew Cuomo said: "New York has long been a beacon of hope for immigrants from across the globe, and as Washington continues to threaten the rights of new Americans we will work harder than ever to ensure they are protected. By expanding the programs offered through the Liberty Defense Project, we can ensure New York's immigrants have the social services, health care, and urgent assistance they need as they seek a better life for themselves and their families."

More than $1 Million in Public and Private Investment Will Provide Services to Meet Urgent Legal Needs of State’s Immigrants

The Carnegie Corporation of New York and the Ford Foundation Will Join Partnership and Provide Financial Resources to the Liberty Defense Project

A Statewide Coalition of 230 Private Sector Law Firms, Legal Departments, Bar Associations and Advocacy Organizations Will Join Effort to Provide Pro Bono Legal Services to Immigrants