A Washington state task force is working to close safety gaps affecting children left behind when their parents are deported. Created by Gov. Bob Ferguson days after Donald Trump returned to office, the Family Separation Response Task Force aims to ensure kids of detained immigrants aren’t abandoned or denied education.
The Department of Children, Youth and Families-led effort found serious deficiencies, especially in handling situations outside of school, like field trips or when one parent remains. The report followed warnings from advocates like Catalina Velasquez of the Washington Immigrant Solidarity Network, who says families are urgently seeking guidance.
Despite existing limits on local police cooperation with immigration enforcement, officials noted schools lack direction for off-campus events. The task force is working with the Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction to close these gaps.
Though it’s rare for children to enter foster care, many families still face painful choices. The task force’s final report is expected this winter.
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