Commissioner Morales proposes digital rights amendment to Whatcom County charter

The Whatcom County Charter Review Commission convened on May 29, 2025, to discuss significant amendments aimed at updating the county charter to reflect contemporary rights and issues. A key proposal, introduced by Commissioner Morales, seeks to align the charter's language with that of the U.S. and Washington state constitutions while incorporating new sections that address digital human rights and labor rights.

Commissioner Morales emphasized the need for these updates, noting that the charter has not been revised in this context since 1978. He argued that as society increasingly operates in both digital and physical realms, it is essential to recognize digital rights alongside traditional human rights. The proposed amendments would also affirm the right to a clean and healthy environment and the right of workers to organize.

The discussion included concerns about the potential divisiveness of these rights, with some commissioners expressing caution regarding the implications of establishing a climate justice commission as part of the amendments. There was a consensus that while some aspects of the proposal are beneficial, further legal review is necessary to ensure that the amendments do not overstep legislative boundaries.

The commission plans to refine the proposals and aims to present them for public consideration by mid-June. This initiative reflects a broader commitment to expanding rights for residents of Whatcom County, leveraging the county's unique charter status to enhance protections that may not be available in other jurisdictions.