BRANDON HANSEN / KCHW NEWS

The Stevens County Board of Commissioners has unanimously passed Resolution No. 042-2025, officially declaring Stevens County a “non-sanctuary county” and affirming its commitment to the “rule of law.”

Passed during a regular session in Colville, the resolution emphasizes the county’s intent to fully cooperate with federal immigration authorities and uphold the United States Constitution and federal law. It states that Stevens County does not have, and will not adopt, any policy or ordinance that limits cooperation with federal immigration enforcement, except where state law explicitly requires it.

The resolution was approved by a 3–0 vote on July 29, 2025, and signed by Commissioners Greg Young, Mark Burrows, and Monty Stobart. Jonnie R. Brown, Clerk of the Board, attested the document.

According to the resolution, the county believes that cooperation between local, state, and federal law enforcement is critical to public safety. It also references the Washington State “Keep Washington Working Act” (RCW 10.93.160), which restricts such cooperation, as a concern for local governance and safety.

Key provisions of the resolution include:

1. Affirming that Stevens County is not a sanctuary county and will not limit cooperation with federal authorities unless prohibited by state law.
2. Encouraging all local law enforcement agencies to cooperate with federal authorities that is permissible under federal and state law.
3. Clarifying that the resolution is not intended to promote racial profiling or violate constitutional rights, but to support lawful cooperation and public safety.
4. Emphasizing that the safety of local, state, and federal officials and agents is a top priority.

A copy of the resolution will be sent to the Governor of Washington, the Washington State Association of Counties, and the U.S. Department of Homeland Security as a formal notice of the county’s position.

The Board said it intends to reject any policy that hinders federal cooperation, reaffirming Stevens County’s stance on the enforcement of immigration laws and the protection of its communities.