Washington Lawmaker Proposes Bill to Bar Recent ICE Officers from State Police Positions

Washington Lawmaker Proposes Bill to Bar Recent ICE Officers from State Police Positions

A Democratic lawmaker in Washington state has put forward a significant piece of legislation known as the ICE Out Act of 2026. This bill seeks to prevent state law enforcement agencies from hiring individuals who have served as sworn officers with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement since the commencement of President Donald Trump’s second term.

Representative Tarra Simmons Takes Action

The legislation is spearheaded by state Representative Tarra Simmons, who has a unique perspective on the issue. Simmons, a former convicted felon, served time in 2011 for three felony convictions related to controlled substances and retail theft before successfully having her criminal record expunged.

In a press release, Simmons emphasized the importance of fostering trust between law enforcement and the community. She stated, “In Washington, we have worked incredibly hard to build trust between law enforcement and community. In most Washington agencies, the men and women who serve have developed a culture of holding each other accountable to the highest professional standards. The last thing we need is infiltration of ICE agents trained during the Trump Administration to send us backwards.”

The Need for Trustworthy Law Enforcement

Simmons further remarked on the challenges facing law enforcement recruitment. “We need more officers,” she said, highlighting the necessity for candidates who can earn the respect and trust of their communities. “However, we expect those officers to earn the trust and respect of the communities they live in, not act as an occupying force. This bill is designed to prevent those sorts of dangerous tactics from becoming part of the culture of policing in Washington state.”

Response from the Community and Law Enforcement

Fox News Digital sought comments from the Department of Homeland Security and the White House regarding the bill but did not receive an immediate response.

Public opinions on the proposed legislation have been mixed. Notably, conservative radio host Jason Rantz criticized Simmons’ approach on social media. He accused her of hypocrisy by pointing out her past as a convicted felon while advocating for the hiring of felons. Rantz stated, “This shows the stunning hypocrisy of Democrats. Simmons is a convicted felon who has repeatedly pushed to force people to hire felons or offer them housing. It’s absolutely shameful.”

Understanding the Legislation in Detail

The provisions of HB 2641 indicate that it would prohibit all Washington state law enforcement agencies from hiring anyone who has served as a sworn officer for the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement on or after January 20, 2025. If passed, this law would take effect on October 1.

Simmons has released statements explaining the motivations behind her bill. She highlighted a series of disturbing reports documenting the practices of ICE agents, portraying them as violent and inhumane. “Headlines, citizen-captured video, and stories from community members have documented the inhumane and violent tactics ICE agents use to carry out a sinister dragnet operation,” she reiterated in her press statement. Such allegations include instances of ICE agents breaking vehicle windows, detaining individuals without cause, and, in some cases, using lethal force.

Legislative Context and Reactions

The introduction of this bill occurs against a backdrop of heightened scrutiny of ICE and its enforcement tactics, especially during the previous administration. Critics argue that the agency’s operations have fostered fear within immigrant communities, undermining the relationship between these communities and local law enforcement.

In a broader context, the proposal aligns with ongoing discussions about policing reforms across the United States. Many advocates argue for a reevaluation of law enforcement practices, emphasizing the need for accountability and community trust.

Simmons’ campaign website further elaborates on her history and mission. It describes her role as a lawyer and civil rights activist who has championed criminal justice reform. The site states that after her incarceration, Simmons experienced firsthand the struggles of re-entering society, including economic insecurity, housing issues, and limited access to healthcare and job training.

Additionally, Simmons is described as a co-founder of several nonprofits aimed at assisting formerly incarcerated individuals with reintegration and building political empowerment among marginalized communities.

The Path Ahead for the ICE Out Act

The ICE Out Act of 2026 has already sparked significant discussion and is likely to face various challenges as it progresses through the legislative process. The bill’s success will depend on the dynamics within the Washington state legislature and the broader public sentiment regarding immigration enforcement and community policing.

Simmons’ unwavering stance against the influence of ICE reflects a growing movement among lawmakers advocating for comprehensive reforms in law enforcement practices. As discussions continue, the intersection of immigration, law enforcement, and community relationships will remain at the forefront of political discourse in Washington and beyond.

As this story develops, lawmakers and community leaders will undoubtedly monitor the implications of the ICE Out Act closely, considering its potential impact on public safety and trust in law enforcement.

Fox News Digital’s Landon Mion contributed to this report.