Spokane City Council Votes to Extend Protections Against ICE Agents

On August 26, 2025, the Spokane City Council approved the "Safe and Welcome in Spokane" ordinance, expanding protections against warrantless searches by immigration enforcement in specific non-public areas. This initiative addresses community concerns over security and accessibility, particularly in public rights of way that are not generally accessible to the public. Council Member Paul Dillon highlighted that the ordinance reinforces the city's commitment to ensuring safety and respect for all residents. The council previously passed Ordinance C35681 in 2018, which aimed to prevent federal immigration officials from entering city property without a warrant. However, that ordinance did not apply to public rights of way or events held there, prompting the need for this new measure amid rising federal enforcement.

The council's action comes in response to heightened immigration enforcement efforts and civil unrest, particularly following protests in June 2025. The ordinance aims to foster trust and safety within the community and ensure that non-public areas remain accessible. For more details, residents are encouraged to review the FAQs on the city's Items of Interest page.