Lawmakers in Washington state have approved legislation that could allow undocumented immigrants access to a major state-run housing assistance program, drawing polarized reactions amid deep budget concerns.
The bill, SB 5232, was passed by the Democratic-led Legislature in April 2025 and if the governor agrees, would remove a legal residency requirement for the Housing and Essential Needs Referral Program, known as HEN, as Fox News reports.
The HEN program helps low-income individuals who are unable to work due to mental or physical disabilities by providing housing assistance and other basic needs support. Previously, applicants were required to be U.S. citizens or legally residing in the country to qualify for the aid.
SB 5232 eliminates that legal status requirement, potentially extending the program’s reach to those who are undocumented. With approximately $130 million currently allocated to HEN, some legislators have raised concerns over how extending eligibility might impact the program’s finances and priority of service.
The bill has been delivered to Democrat Gov. Bob Ferguson, who has not yet said whether he will sign it into law. If enacted, it would represent a substantial policy shift amid Washington’s reported $16 billion budget shortfall. Critics argue the legislation would stretch limited resources and displace U.S. citizens in need. Rep. Travis Couture voiced opposition, stating that expanding the program without increasing the budget means “our people get kicked out of line,” and urging Ferguson to veto the proposal.
Sen. Leonard Christian also objected strongly, describing this legislative session as one focused on benefits for noncitizens. He warned that the changes would lead to direct cash and housing support for undocumented individuals, despite the state’s financial constraints.
Supporters of the bill argue it aligns with broader state efforts to protect and provide support to vulnerable populations, regardless of immigration status. This comes as Ferguson recently enacted laws increasing oversight of private detention centers and restricting bail bond agents’ role in immigration enforcement.
Christian, however, expressed skepticism about those broader initiatives, saying, “It just seems like the state is trying really hard to pick a fight with the Trump administration.” The reference points to rising national tensions over state-led immigration policies and federal immigration enforcement. Christian also shared personal experiences, revealing concerns about giving assistance to individuals with substance abuse issues. He recalled how his mother’s cash aid was misused during his childhood, saying it was spent on “marijuana and alcohol,” instead of food for the family, illustrating his worries about accountability in distributing aid.
The debate has highlighted a larger divide in Olympia over budget priorities and how far the state should go to support undocumented immigrants. Democrats have framed their proposals around equity and access to essential services, while Republicans have increasingly focused on fiscal responsibility and prioritizing assistance for legal residents.
Christian criticized the financial logic behind such expansions, suggesting Democratic lawmakers were acting emotionally. “A lot of times,” he said, “the Democratic Party thinks more with their hearts than with their head.” He also questioned who would ultimately bear the cost, stating, “Somebody else has got to pay for that crazy program.” Christian compared it to maxing out a credit card without concern for who will be left with the bill afterward.
As attention turns to the governor’s upcoming decision, pressure is mounting from both sides. Fox News Digital reportedly reached out to Ferguson's office and supporters of the bill but received no confirmation on his stance.
Backers of the measure are urging the governor to sign the bill, arguing it reflects Washington’s commitment to inclusivity. Meanwhile, opponents are calling for a veto, warning it could reduce access for current U.S. citizens in need and worsen the state’s financial crisis. If signed, the bill will mark yet another move by Washington to expand immigrant rights, which may place the state at odds with national immigration policy under a potential future Trump administration.
The final decision rests with Gov. Ferguson, whose choice could define the direction of state aid programs and influence the balance between welcoming newcomers and managing limited state resources.
