Weigh in on ICE, public safety and state policy

Sen. Phil Fortunato sent this bulletin at 01/26/2026 06:18 PM PST

Dear Friends and Neighbors,

I’ve heard from hundreds of you about what is happening with ICE and immigration enforcement in Washington state. Many of you have asked why enforcement now looks different than it did in years past.

For some background, federal immigration enforcement isn’t new. ICE has operated under Republican and Democratic presidents alike. What has changed are Washington state policies.

Washington’s sanctuary laws prohibit federal immigration officers from making arrests in places like jails and courthouses, controlled environments where enforcement can be carried out safely and with minimal risk to the public. As a result, enforcement is pushed out into neighborhoods and public spaces instead. That shift is not accidental; it is the direct result of decisions made by the state Legislature.

I have opposed these sanctuary-state policies because they make enforcement more dangerous for everyone involved: law enforcement officers, bystanders, and even the individuals being arrested. If enforcement is going to occur, it should be done in the safest, most controlled manner possible.

This session, the Legislature is also considering Substitute Senate Bill 5855, which would prohibit most law enforcement officers — including federal officers — from wearing face coverings while interacting with the public, with limited exceptions for undercover operations and certain protective situations. The bill would also allow individuals detained by masked officers to bring civil lawsuits, potentially exposing local governments to added legal liability.

I voted no on SSB 5855. Law enforcement officers already are required by law to be reasonably identifiable and to display identifying information and badges. Prohibiting protective face coverings does not improve accountability, but it does increase personal safety risks for officers at a time when threats and harassment toward law enforcement are on the rise.

These issues are closely connected, and they raise important questions about how state policy affects public safety and law enforcement practices in our communities. Because these policies directly affect public safety in our communities, your perspective matters. I want to hear directly from you.

Share your thoughts in this survey!

Please take a moment to complete the short survey below and share your thoughts on Washington’s sanctuary policies, cooperation with federal immigration enforcement, and SSB 5855.

Stay engaged!

Your feedback is an important part of this conversation. As the Legislature continues to debate these issues, I want to make sure your voice is part of the discussion and reflected in the work I do on your behalf.

It is an honor to serve you in Olympia,