America First Legal (AFL), with the support of Cooper & Kirk PLLC and Ard Law Group, is actively defending Adams County, Washington. The defense comes in response to actions by Washington state officials aiming to enforce sanctuary laws and policies, which AFL argues compel the county to breach federal immigration laws.
Washington state officials had previously threatened legal action against Adams County for its refusal to adhere to the "Keep Washington Working Act," a law AFL describes as fraudulent. The current situation involves efforts by these officials to impose a "consent decree" on Adams County, obliging it to contravene federal law over a four-year period.
AFL's position is that such sanctuary laws shield criminal illegal aliens and jeopardize law-abiding citizens. James Rogers, America First Legal Senior Counsel, stated: “Federal law is clear: it is a crime to conceal, harbor, or shield illegal aliens, and it is a crime to prevent federal officials from discharging their duties."
Last December 23rd, AFL sent letters warning Governor Jay Inslee and other state officials about potential legal consequences for enforcing sanctuary policies. These warnings were directed at 250 state and local officials concerning interference with federal immigration enforcement.
AFL remains committed to supporting Adams County against what it sees as coercive tactics by the state of Washington. Rogers further commented on the situation: "It is even more disgraceful that the State of Washington would target one of its own counties because the officials there have the courage to follow the law and have been cooperating with ICE."