Kirkland Passes Sanctuary City-Like Law On Immigration, Religion

KIRKLAND, WA - The Kirkland City Council this week unanimously passed an ordinance that prohibits city employees - including police - from inquiring about immigration status.

The ordinance does provide for exceptions, but the protections it provides are similar to those granted by sanctuary cities and counties, like Seattle and King County. The new ordinance also includes a provision prohibiting city employees from collecting information about religious affiliation.

On immigration, the law deems that no city employee shall ask visitors or residents for documentation of their immigration status. It also states that city employees shall not "initiate any inquiry or enforcement action" against visitors or residents based on race, immigration status, or lack of an ability to speak English.

The ordinance, however, does not prevent city employees from participating in "cross-designation or task force activities with federal law enforcement authorities."

The religious section of the ordinance - which references fears that President Donald Trump may institute a registry of Muslims - prohibits city employees from collecting "information or establish[ing] or otherwise utilize[ing] a registry, database or other compilation classifying persons on the basis of their religious affiliation.

The new ordinance follows a proclamation Mayor Amy Walen made in December declaring Kirkland a safe, welcoming, and diverse city.

“I am proud of what this Council has done and the outpouring of support for the resolution from our citizens,” said Walen said in a statement after the ordinance passed.

Image via Shutterstock