Oregon Lawmakers Pass Bill to Protect Schools from ICE, Highlighting Democratic Rift
Oregon lawmakers have passed House Bill 4079, signed by Governor Tina Kotek, which mandates that school boards and public colleges notify families, employees, and students when federal immigration agents enter school property. This legislation comes in response to the Trump administration's rescission of a policy that blocked immigration enforcement at sensitive areas like schools. The bill aims to protect educational institutions from federal immigration enforcement actions. However, the bill has sparked a debate among Democrats, with some, like Rep. Lesly Muñoz, criticizing it for not going far enough in protecting against ICE actions. The Woodburn Education Association has secured its own agreement, requiring a judicial warrant for ICE entry and providing 'Know Your Rights' information to staff and students.