A controversial bill has been introduced in Washington state, aiming to reshape the landscape of law enforcement recruitment. Dubbed the ICE Out Act of 2026, the legislation proposes a ban on hiring individuals who have served as sworn U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officers since January 20, 2025.
The bill’s sponsor, state Representative Tarra Simmons, brings a uniquely personal perspective to the debate. Her own past includes serving time for felony convictions before having her record cleared, a journey that fueled her commitment to criminal justice reform and a deep understanding of systemic challenges.
Simmons argues the bill is about safeguarding the hard-won trust between Washington’s law enforcement agencies and the communities they serve. She expresses concern that ICE agents trained during a specific presidential administration could undermine the culture of accountability and professional standards within state policing.
The core of her argument centers on preventing what she describes as an “occupying force” within local law enforcement. While acknowledging the critical need for more officers, Simmons insists they must earn the respect and trust of the communities they are sworn to protect, not operate as an antagonistic presence.
The proposed legislation specifically targets those who joined ICE after a defined date, raising questions about the rationale behind the timeframe and potential implications for qualified candidates. If enacted, the law would take effect in October, fundamentally altering hiring practices across the state.
Simmons’ office points to documented instances of what they characterize as “inhumane and violent tactics” employed by ICE agents. These allegations include aggressive enforcement actions, misuse of state data, and the detention of individuals with varying legal statuses, even U.S. citizens.
The bill has ignited a fierce debate, drawing criticism from those who view it as discriminatory and a potential impediment to effective law enforcement. Opponents question the fairness of broadly disqualifying individuals based solely on their employment history with ICE.
Critics highlight the apparent contradiction in Simmons’s advocacy, noting her past support for hiring individuals with criminal records while simultaneously seeking to restrict employment opportunities for law-abiding ICE officers. This perceived hypocrisy has become a central point of contention.
Simmons’ background as a civil rights activist and advocate for formerly incarcerated individuals is central to her political identity. Her personal experiences with the challenges of re-entry have shaped her legislative priorities and her commitment to systemic change.
The ICE Out Act of 2026 represents a bold and divisive attempt to redefine the relationship between state and federal law enforcement in Washington. Its outcome will likely have far-reaching consequences for policing and immigration enforcement within the state.
