Proposed ordinance could keep some illegal immigrants from being deported
SEATTLE -- King County council members will hold a public hearing Tuesday for a controversial plan that could keep federal authorities from deporting some illegal immigrants being held in jail.
Right now, immigrants booked into the county jail are handed over to federal immigration authorities, often whether they have been charged or not. They are frequently held in the jail for 30 days or more while authorities study their case and determine whether or not to deport them.
If passed, the ordinance would bar a hold on people who haven't been charged with a crime or those charged with minor infractions like traffic violations.
The public hearing on the proposed ordinance is at 1:30 p.m. in council chambers.