In a move to uphold the rights of immigrants within its borders, Washington has strengthened its stance through an executive order signed by Governor Bob Ferguson. As reported yesterday, the directive establishes the Immigration Sub-Cabinet, a body designed to ensure better coordination among state agencies dealing with immigration issues.
Under the new order, this Sub-Cabinet will be convened regularly and is set to be spearheaded by the state Office of Equity, the Governor's Office, and the Office of Financial Management. Governor Ferguson's order also specifically directs state agencies to critically review and potentially overhaul their data collection and sharing policies, to effectively protect all residents' privacy and safety. "Washington is a welcoming community that values immigrants' and refugees' contributions to our economy and our cultural fabric," Governor Ferguson said. "While the federal government engages in cruel attacks on immigrant communities, we are taking action to protect the rights and interests of all Washingtonians."
With this initiative, the state aims to align various programs and services, such as those related to health care and the Keep Washington Working Act, with the requirements of immigrant rights and interests. The executive order dictates that representatives from each state’s cabinet agency will comprise the Immigration Sub-Cabinet to ensure broad and inclusive support for the immigrant community.
The Sub-Cabinet is further set to actively engage with community and stakeholder groups, bolstering communication channels that could echo the voices of those most affected by immigration policies. These groups are expected to regularly meet with the Sub-Cabinet to discuss challenges and collaboratively develop standards and guidance. Moreover, the Sub-Cabinet will produce quarterly reports to Governor Ferguson, including recommendations to even better foster the state's core values.
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