Governor Ferguson signs Executive Order reaffirming Washington’s commitment to protecting immigrant rights

Executive Order 25-09 creates Immigration Sub-Cabinet to promote statewide coordination on immigration issues

OLYMPIA -Today Governor Bob Ferguson announced an executive order that reaffirms Washington's commitment to protecting immigrant communities and their rights, including protecting their data. Executive Order 25-09 creates the Immigration Sub-Cabinet, which promotes coordination among state agencies on issues related to immigration. This builds on and formalizes existing coordination and work to support immigrant families, including the Governor's Family Separation Rapid Response Team.

The Immigration Sub-Cabinet will meet regularly and be led in partnership by the state Office of Equity, the Governor's Office and the Office of Financial Management.

Governor Ferguson's order also directs state agencies to review their data collection, sharing and retention policies to ensure they are protecting the privacy and safety of all residents consistent with Washington's values and the law.

"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. This executive order ensures every agency across our state is working together to defend immigrant rights."

The Immigration Sub-Cabinet is tasked with coordinating on immigration and related issues such as data privacy, health care, the bipartisan Keep Washington Working Act, and other programs or services concerning immigrant rights and interests. It will be comprised of representatives from each of the state's cabinet agencies.

The Immigration Sub-Cabinet will also engage in open communication with community and stakeholder groups, including relevant state commissions, to amplify and incorporate the voices of those who are directly affected by these issues. The sub-cabinet will meet regularly with these community groups to discuss pressing issues facing immigrant communities and help develop statewide standards, guidance and expectations.

Moreover, the Immigration Sub-Cabinet will provide quarterly reports to the Governor that include any recommendations for changes in state policy or practices to further the state's core values.

If you would like to receive updates about the Immigration Sub-Cabinet, email [email protected].