Steps to Sine Die & Immigrant Support

IMMIGRANT SUPPORT

Washington Continues to Lead in Immigrant Protections

Washington has long been a leader in protecting immigrant rights, ensuring our communities remain safe, inclusive, and supported. Thanks to the work of House Democrats, we continue to expand protections and resources for immigrants and their families.

New Action to Support Families

📢 Governor Ferguson recently signed an executive order creating a rapid response team to support children facing family separation. This critical step reinforces our state’s commitment to keeping families together and protecting vulnerable children.

🏛️ The Washington State Commission on Hispanic Affairs has also launched a rapid response hub to assist undocumented immigrants. This online resource provides essential legal, financial, and social service information to help families navigate these uncertain times.

Protecting Immigrant Students’ Rights

Every child in Washington deserves access to a safe, high-quality education, regardless of immigration status. As Superintendent Chris Reykdal recently reaffirmed, public schools have both a constitutional and moral obligation to serve all students.

✔️ Undocumented children have the legal right to attend public school under Plyler v. Doe (1982).

✔️ Schools cannot deny admission based on immigration status or require Social Security numbers.

✔️ If federal authorities present a warrant, schools must notify families in advance unless legally prohibited.

📌 Resources for Families & Educators:

• OSPI Guidance: Protections for Immigrant Students
• Keep Washington Working Act: Best Practices for Schools

Expanded Resources for Immigrants & Refugees

Washington remains a welcoming state for immigrants and refugees. The Office of Refugee and Immigrant Assistance (ORIA) at DSHS provides vital services, including:

✅ Immigration & naturalization assistance

✅ Employment & job training programs

✅ Healthcare & legal aid resources

🔹 Need help? Use ORIA’s resource tool to find services or visit a DSHS Community Service Office by searching your zip code, city, or county here.

Legislative Wins: Advancing Equity for Immigrant Communities

House Democrats are taking bold action to protect and uplift immigrant communities, ensuring Washington remains a place of opportunity for all.

🏛️ Recent Wins:

✔️ Banned private for-profit detention centers

✔️ Expanded healthcare access for undocumented adults

✔️ Protected immigrant workers from local enforcement overreach

✔️ Opened professional licensing to all, regardless of status

✔️ Funded dual-language & tribal language education programs

✔️ Invested in civil legal aid for undocumented workers

✔️ Bridged the digital divide with the Digital Equity Act

We refuse to let fear define our state. Instead, we continue to lead with compassion, action, and a commitment to justice.

📌 Know someone impacted by immigration policy changes? Share this DSHS resource link to help them access critical information.

Additional Legal Facts

Emergency Resources

-Washington Immigrant Solidarity Network’s Rapid Response Hotline: 1 (844) 724-3737 provides immediate assistance if ICE activity is suspected in your area.

Fourth Amendment Protections

Immigrants, like all individuals in the U.S., are protected by the Fourth Amendment, which prohibits unreasonable searches and seizures. ICE officers must have a judicial warrant to enter private homes or detain someone.

Driver’s Licenses for Undocumented Residents

Washington allows undocumented individuals to obtain standard driver’s licenses or identification cards without requiring proof of legal status.

Know Your Rights

You have the right to remain silent when questioned by immigration officials.

You do not have to open the door for ICE unless they present a warrant signed by a judge.

Workplace Rights

Under federal law, all workers—regardless of immigration status—are entitled to minimum wage, overtime pay, and protections against unsafe working conditions. Employers cannot retaliate against workers for asserting these rights.

Everyone has the right to legal representation, although immigration court does not provide public defenders.

Local Law Enforcement 

Reminder: Local police and schools are not immigration enforcement. Reach out if you need clarification or help regarding your rights.

The law prohibits local law enforcement agencies from using public funds or personnel to enforce federal immigration laws.

Law enforcement cannot ask about immigration status, detain individuals solely based on immigration status, or share non-public personal information with immigration authorities without a warrant.

Washington Office of the Attorney General’s Guidance Concerning Immigration Enforcement

Song of the Week: “Pressure” by Sounds of Blackness

As we navigate the pressures of our work, the weight of our responsibilities can sometimes feel overwhelming. This week, I’ve been reflecting on the track Pressure by Sounds of Blackness, a powerful reminder of the resilience we must summon in the face of challenges. The song’s lyrics speak to the toll that societal and personal pressures can take, but also to the importance of finding relief and strength within ourselves and our communities.

In the Legislature, we are no strangers to the strain that comes with decision-making, balancing competing interests, and advocating for policies that truly support the people we serve. As we work to address critical issues—from affordable housing to environmental justice—it’s important that we remember the importance of self-care, solidarity, and perseverance. We need to support each other and stay grounded in our shared goals of equity, justice, and well-being. This track serves as a reminder to acknowledge the pressure, but also to find moments of relief and collective strength as we push forward.

Warm regards,

Rep. Debra Entenman