King County Passes 'Don't Ask' Immigration Law

Liz Jones
11/10/2009

The King County Council has clarified its position on undocumented immigration. The council passed a law Monday that prohibits county agencies and employees from asking a person's immigration status.

The county measure formalizes a policy that many government agencies already put into practice. County–run health clinics don't ask for patients' immigration status. Sheriff's deputies follow a policy to not ask whether a person is in the country legally or not.

Now, the county has approved this 'don't ask' policy as official county law. Council member Bob Ferguson sponsored the legislation.

Ferguson: "For me it's pretty simple. I believe in safer communities. I believe in healthier communities. We have heard from the experts in our county on both of those issues. They are clear. This legislation makes our community safer. This legislation makes our community healthier. It's very straightforward."

Before the vote, the council heard lengthy public testimony for and against the measure. Officials from public health, the sheriff's department and the county jail spoke out in favor of the legislation. They said the policy helps promote trust and cooperation between immigrants and county government.

Meanwhile, other citizens warned the council not to turn a blind eye to undocumented immigration.

Councilwoman Julia Patterson made clear she does not condone illegal immigration, although she supported the measure.

Patterson: "It is not a vote that says we're in favor of illegal immigration. I think it is a vote that says we're in favor of humane treatment and care of the people who are in our communities."

The legislation narrowly passed the council with a 5 to 4 vote, and it split along party lines. The four council members who opposed it are Republicans.

I'm Liz Jones, KUOW News.

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