The Keep Washington Working Act restricts local law enforcement in Washington state from cooperating with U. S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), a policy that remains firm despite recent federal executive orders. Wenatchee Police Chief Edgar Reinfeld clarified that the law prohibits police from inquiring about individuals' immigration statuses or sharing non-public personal information in non-criminal contexts. He noted that any cooperation with federal immigration authorities is limited to instances where a civil immigration warrant or a signed warrant from a federal judge is presented.

This legislative framework is designed to maintain community trust and safety, ensuring that residents feel secure from immigration enforcement actions. The Chelan County Regional Justice Center has not booked or held anyone for ICE in five years, underscoring the commitment to these regulations. Reinfeld recalled a time when local law enforcement collaborated with U. S. Customs and Border Protection, but that practice ceased following the enactment of the state law.

The article highlights the ongoing tension between state laws and federal immigration policies, illustrating how local jurisdictions navigate these complex issues. Overall, Washington's approach reflects a prioritization of civil rights and community relations in the face of federal directives.