Sen. introduces bill to move incarcerated to ICE, calling WA ‘a sanctuary for felons’
Apr 23, 2025, 1:00 PM
Senator Phil Fortunato (R-Auburn) introduced a bill to move incarcerated undocumented migrants to ICE custody. (Photo courtesy of Senate Republicans)
(Photo courtesy of Senate Republicans)
Washington Senator Phil Fortunato (R-Auburn) introduced a bill to move incarcerated undocumented migrants to U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement custody.
According to a news release from Senate Republicans on Tuesday, Senate Bill 5818 would authorize the Department of Corrections to transfer people in custody with federal immigration detainers to ICE. Fortunato said the bill would reverse what he calls misguided policies that force Washington taxpayers to fund the incarceration of undocumented immigrants.
The release explained that the decision was previously blocked by state law, with Fortunato calling Washington a harbor for criminals.
“Washington has become a sanctuary for felons,” Fortunato stated via the release. “We’re not talking about law-abiding immigrants. These are individuals who are in the country illegally and have committed serious crimes. There is no reason taxpayers should continue footing the bill.”
ICE: Over 300 people in facilities undocumented
Senate Republicans stated that, according to ICE, more than 300 people incarcerated in state facilities are undocumented, and the majority are charged with sex offenses or murder. The annual average cost of an inmate is approximately $75,000 per year.
According to the release, Washington is spending more than $23 million each year to hold individuals who could be turned over to ICE.
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