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Franklin County declares itself a non‑sanctuary jurisdiction and pledges cooperation with federal authorities
Summary
The board approved a resolution declaring Franklin County "not to be a sanctuary county," affirming support for federal enforcement and directing that county resources not be used to obstruct federal immigration law enforcement.
Franklin County commissioners on June 4 approved a resolution declaring the county will not operate as a sanctuary jurisdiction and expressing support for federal immigration-enforcement policies.
County Administrator Mister Danzel read the resolution to the board. The document states the board "hereby declares its intent not to be a sanctuary county and opposes the adoption of any state laws, policies, ordinances, or resolutions that would cause it to be designated or operate as such." It also says the county will continue to "support and cooperate with federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies and lawful enforcement of all applicable laws, including federal immigration laws to the extent permitted by The United States and Washington state constitution."
The resolution further states that "no county resources, funds, facilities, equipment, or personnel shall intentionally be used to obstruct or hinder the enforcement of federal immigration laws where such enforcement is being carried out in accordance with law," and that the resolution becomes effective immediately upon adoption.
Commissioners discussed recent newspaper listings that characterized many Washington counties as "sanctuary" jurisdictions and said they want the county's position communicated to federal officials. One commissioner asked that the resolution be forwarded to counterparts in Eastern Washington to build a coalition. A motion to approve resolution 2025-0173, Franklin County non sanctuary jurisdiction status, passed by voice vote.
Discussion versus decision: public and commissioners' comments about state law and federal policy were part of the discussion; the formal board action adopted the resolution as read. The transcript records that the board approved and directed the county administrator to forward the resolution to other officials.
The resolution text as read references the U.S. Constitution and the Washington state constitution; no specific state statutes were cited in the reading beyond general references to state law.
