Other LanguagesThe information on this page is based on current law as of the date indicated and it is not legal advice. As always, individuals, agencies, and other entities are encouraged to discuss all legal issues and questions with their attorneys.
Know Your Rights
Across Washington, communities are concerned about increased immigration enforcement activity. View guidance summarizing general information about limitations on federal immigration enforcement power, limits on state and local agencies from participating in immigration enforcement, and the rights of individuals and entities within Washington: Know Your Rights: Civil Immigration Enforcement in Washington.
Keep Washington Working (KWW)
In 2019, the Washington State Legislature passed the Keep Washington Working Act (KWW) with bipartisan support. KWW made numerous changes to state law for the stated purpose of “ensuring the state of Washington remains a place where the rights and dignity of all residents are maintained and protected in order to keep Washington working.”
KWW required the Attorney General to publish model policies, guidance, and training recommendations based on these new limits by May 21, 2020. Below are the submission requirements and model policies as mandated by the state legislature. Should you have questions, please reach out to KWW@atg.wa.gov.
KWW Submission Requirements
KWW requires all Washington public schools, courthouses, publicly operated Washington health facilities, & Washington law enforcement agencies to (1) adopt policies consistent with those published by the AGO, or (2) notify the AGO that they are not adopting the necessary changes, state the reasons why they are not doing so, and provide the AGO with a copy of the agency’s policies that ensure compliance with KWW. Please submit policies here. You may view submitted policies on this page.
All Washington organizations and entities that provide services related to physical or mental health and wellness, education, or access to justice are also encouraged to adopt policies consistent with the AGO’s model policy. Shelters and their administrative and/or operating entities that do not adopt these model policies and guidance, should notify the AGO with (1) the reasons why it is not adopting them, and (2) provide a copy of the shelter’s policies that ensure compliance with KWW.
Please submit policies here. You may view submitted policies on this page.
KWW Model Policies
As of 2/20/2025, the AGO’s KWW guidance and model policies are still applicable regarding the law. While federal processes or policies referenced in the AGO’s 2020 guidance may have changed, the law still protects against local and state agencies from being compelled to engage in federal immigration enforcement.
- Model Policies, and Best Practices for Washington Courthouses
- Washington Health Facilities: Guidance and Model Policies to Assist in the Implementation of the Keep Washington Working Act
- Model Policies, and Training Recommendations for State and Local Law Enforcement Agencies
- Guidance and Model Policies For Public Schools
- Guidance, Model Policies, and Best Practices For Shelters
Immigration Support
Immigration law is one of the most complicated areas in the legal field. Thousands of Washington consumers require immigration-related legal services each year, but unfortunately many individuals, often times relying on referrals from family and friends, are unknowingly defrauded by people claiming to be experts. The consequences can be devastating for those seeking the opportunity to live and work in the United States. The Washington State Attorney General has no authority over federal immigration matters but the below links may assist in accessing services.
For information about accessing reputable immigration services (including licensed attorneys specializing in immigration law) or reporting fraudulent services visit consumer protection A-Z.
Additional information related to immigration resources is available by topic: 27. Immigration, 33. Legal Advice, and 34. Legal Aid.
You may also wish to contact your federal representatives. In many cases they are able to provide assistance to citizens in resolving issues involving federal agencies.
Senator Maria Cantwell
915 Second Avenue, Suite 3206
Seattle, WA 98174
(206)220-6400
Senator Patty Murray
2988 Jackson Federal Building
915 2nd Avenue
Seattle, Washington 98174
(206) 553-5545
1-866-481-9186