Gov. Brown issues executive order to protect immigrants

Gov. Kate Brown issued an executive order Thursday that she said will “strengthen Oregon law to better protect Oregonians” and called on Attorney General Ellen Rosenblum to bring legal action to oppose the federal government’s recently announced immigration policies.

“I will uphold the civil and human rights of all who call Oregon home,” Brown said. “It is also my duty to prevent any undue harm to our economy and ensure the ability of Oregonians to support their families. These new policies from the White House show no regard for the values Oregonians believe in or the economic realities Oregon faces.”

In an Executive Order , the governor set policy direction that instructs state employees to perform everyday duties mindful of Oregon’s welcoming and inclusive position toward all, including immigrants and refugees. The order also requires state agencies to not discriminate on the basis of immigration status.

In addition, Brown broadened Oregon’s 30-year-old law that she said “prohibits law enforcement agencies from treating undocumented Oregonians as criminals.” Now, all state agencies, not just law enforcement, must follow this rule.

Governor Brown has also forbidden state agencies from participating in the creation of a “registry” to identify people based on religion.