OLYMPIA – Today, Rep. Natasha Hill issued the following statement in response to the Spokane Valley City Council’s proposed resolution to declare the city “not a sanctuary city,” a move that directly contradicts state law and undermines the protections enshrined in the Keep Washington Working Act (KWWA):
“This resolution is nothing more than political grandstanding that fuels division and creates unnecessary confusion around the rights and protections of our immigrant and refugee communities. The Keep Washington Working Act was enacted to protect Washingtonians and ensure local law enforcement resources are used to promote public safety—not to serve as an extension of federal immigration enforcement.
For months, I have heard from concerned constituents about the growing fear and uncertainty facing our immigrant neighbors. Instead of using this moment to unite our communities and provide clarity, Spokane Valley leaders are choosing to stoke fear, disregarding the real harm and trauma inflicted upon hardworking families who call this state home.
Let me be clear: this resolution does not change the law. Washington’s sanctuary state law remains in full effect, and local law enforcement agencies—including those in Spokane County—must continue to comply with it. The federal administration’s attacks on immigrant communities are unconstitutional, un-American, undemocratic, and are bad for our economy. We cannot allow chaos and confusion to disrupt the values we hold and rights we afford in this Washington.
This is a time to stand together against hate and to reject fear-mongering. I applaud the City of Spokane for their resolution reaffirming this commitment and implore Spokane Valley and cities across our County and State to support our immigrant and refugee communities and condemn political attacks that seek to divide us.
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