Nineteen Washington state representatives have signed on to a bill that would make it easier to sue immigration agents personally. House Bill 2597 is on tomorrow’s (Weds) schedule in the House of Representatives.
It would add language to current law that says “A person who is injured during civil immigration enforcement by any government agent who, whether or not under color of law, violates the United States Constitution while participating in civil immigration enforcement, may bring a civil action against the government agent in any court.”
The bill also allows for reimbursement of legal fees and other defense costs if the agent is found guilty.
If the legislature approves the bill, it will become effective when the Governor signs it.
Here’s a link to the bill text: https://lawfilesext.leg.wa.gov/biennium/2025-26/Pdf/Bills/House%20Bills/2597.pdf?q=20260127092407
