Douglas County Commissioners Approve Resolution Rejecting Sanctuary County Status
Douglas County commissioners approved a resolution opposing sanctuary county status and affirming cooperation with local, state and federal law enforcement where permitted by law.
Roseburg, Ore - Douglas County commissioners formally stated their opposition to sanctuary county policies during their regular meeting Wednesday.
The Board of Commissioners approved a resolution affirming that the county intends to work with local, state and federal law enforcement agencies whenever that cooperation is allowed under state and federal law.
The resolution also says Douglas County does not want to be classified or operated as a sanctuary county and opposes legislation or government policies that could result in such a designation.
Commissioner Chris Boice read the proposed language aloud before the board voted.
The measure expresses the commissioners’ position but does not establish a new county ordinance, change existing law or provide law enforcement agencies with additional authority.
Oregon’s sanctuary laws place restrictions on how public agencies and local law enforcement may assist with federal immigration enforcement. State guidance generally prohibits agencies from participating in immigration enforcement without a judicial warrant and limits questions or information sharing related to a person’s immigration status. Certain exceptions remain under state law.
The decision drew sharply different reactions from those attending the meeting. Applause could be heard from some members of the audience after the vote, while others voiced their opposition and called out “shame.”
A video recording of the meeting is available through Douglas County’s online meeting archive or by watching it below.
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