ITHACA, NY (607NewsNow) – Tompkins County is seeking clarity from federal partners and local courts on a recent decision by the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services.

In a statement to WHCU, the county says it is concerned about the federal government’s directive to cancel local naturalization ceremonies, citing unmet “statutory requirements.” The change will shift ceremonies to distant venues. The county is looking into what prompted the decision and how to reverse it, if possible.

Anyone who needs assistance or has questions should contact the Tompkins County Clerk’s Office at (607) 274-5431.

Read the full statement below:

Tompkins County is concerned about the federal government’s recent decision to cancel local naturalization ceremonies in several counties, including Tompkins, citing unmet “statutory requirements.” This change shifts ceremonies to more distant venues and creates added burdens for residents who were counting on completing this important milestone close to home.

Our county has long supported and hosted naturalization ceremonies alongside local courts because they are meaningful community events that honor new citizens and their families. Moving them away from our community diminishes that local, welcoming experience.

We are actively seeking clarification from partners and our local courts on what requirements prompted this decision and whether they can be addressed so ceremonies may return in the future. We will continue coordinating with community organizations to ensure affected residents receive timely information about rescheduling support through the process.

To all who were preparing for a local ceremony: your path to citizenship remains valid, and you will be reassigned to a new ceremony location by USCIS. Tompkins County remains committed to ensuring residents feel welcomed, included, and supported as they complete this significant step.

For assistance or questions, please contact the County Clerk’s Office at (607) 274-5431.

State Senator Lea Webb also shared her concern Tuesday on Facebook, saying she is “deeply troubled” by the move, and calling for the full restoration of the ceremonies, “so that our state can continue to welcome new citizens with respect and dignity.”