Over the past year, immigrants have been under attack by the current administration. Regardless of whether they are here legally or are undocumented, some of our immigrant neighbors and friends, people who we know and trust, are experiencing discrimination and harassment.

You probably heard in the news that the Department of Licensing has been providing Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), a federal agency, with residents’ personal information, such as photos and addresses, which has resulted in the detention, arrest and possible deportation of some members of our communities.

The options for state legislators are limited when trying to compensate for destructive federal policy, but Washington Democrats have proposed some bills to help protect immigrants in our state. How do you feel about these measures?

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* 1. Attitudes and threats from the current administration that target individuals on the basis of their ethnicity or religious affiliation have caused many people to be concerned and even afraid. HB 2097 would prevent any state agency from sharing information about religious affiliation with the Federal Government for purposes of creating a federal registry.

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* 2. An increase in hate crimes, reports of harassment, intimidation, bullying and insults toward ethnic minorities has made people anxious and afraid. HB 2029 would create a referral resource for those who are being targeted and are seeking information and assistance on immigration and citizenship matters.

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* 3. The current administration has threatened to deport undocumented immigrants who were brought here as children and were, up until recently, protected under the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program. HJM 4016 condemns the treatment of DACA recipients and requests Congress to freeze deportations of Dreamers.

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* 4. The current administration has stated its plans to eliminate the DACA program, which would put the lives of thousands of people in peril. HB 1488 would ensure that DACA recipients, or Dreamers, in our state are still able to receive financial aid through programs like the College Bound Scholarship.

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* 5. What do you think?
As we get closer to the end of session, I'd like to know what's on your mind. Please leave a comment with your thoughts and feedback on these or any other legislative issues.

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* 6. Your responses are anonymous, so if you'd like a personal reply:
a. Send me an email; or
b. Leave your name and phone number (optional)

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