State Attorney General Bob Ferguson on Thursday released guidance for local governments on protecting the rights of all Washington residents, and the limits of federal immigration authority.
Ferguson’s extensive guidance addresses local law enforcement, jails, public hospitals, schools and employers, as well as interactions between local jurisdictions and federal authorities, according to a State Office of Attorney General media release. It includes model language that can be used to enact laws and policies on how local government entities should respond to federal requests for assistance with immigration enforcement.
“Recent changes in federal immigration policy and practices have caused needless fear and uncertainty in our communities,” Ferguson said. “This guidance helps local governments protect their residents and understand their obligations and their authority in this shifting landscape.”
Non-citizens — like other Washingtonians — are afforded certain rights by the state and United States constitutions and by federal and state laws that protect rights to access services and to privacy in many settings. Local entities are subject to certain requirements under the law but also retain significant discretion in many areas, regardless of whether an individual is lawfully present in the United States.
For example: No federal law requires a local police department to engage in law enforcement activities for the sole purpose of enforcing civil immigration law.
Another example: Local governments and private organizations are not required to allow immigration authorities to enter non-public areas of a building without a warrant signed by a judge.
Another example: K-12 schools are not required to collect information about student or parent immigrant status and are not required to share information with federal immigration authorities about student addresses, class schedules or activities.
This guide is not meant to assist individuals with immigration issues. The Attorney General’s Office does not represent individuals in private legal matters.
Those in need of individual assistance should contact a reputable source such as the Northwest Immigrant Rights Project. Assistance is available for residents across Washington and those detained at the Northwest Detention Center.
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