Fact Check: Washington Can Restrict Out-of-State Military Forces from Entering Its Territory
What We Know
Recently, Washington Governor Bob Ferguson signed House Bill 1321 into law, which restricts out-of-state military forces from entering Washington without the Governor's permission, unless they are mobilized by the President. This law specifically pertains to National Guard troops from other states, territories, or districts. The legislation was sponsored by Rep. Sharlett Mena (D-Tacoma) and reflects a growing trend among states to assert control over military forces operating within their borders. Similar laws exist in states like Montana and Texas, and this particular bill was modeled after legislation in Idaho (Governor Bob Ferguson signs bill restricting armed forces, WA bill to restrict outside National Guard from entering).
The law emphasizes that while Washington welcomes collaboration with National Guard forces, it insists that such collaboration must be sanctioned by the state government. Governor Ferguson articulated the need for this law by stating, “We cannot have armed forces come into our state to enforce policies that are against our core values” (Blocking Unauthorized Militias from Entering WA). The law also includes an emergency clause, allowing it to take effect immediately upon signing (Washington limits armed forces from entering the state).
Analysis
The claim that Washington can restrict out-of-state military forces from entering its territory is substantiated by the enactment of House Bill 1321. The law grants the Governor authority over the entry of National Guard troops from other states, which aligns with the established legal framework governing the National Guard. Each state's National Guard is under the command of its respective governor, who has the power to deploy these forces for domestic emergencies (Ferguson signs bill restricting armed forces from entering state).
The reliability of the sources reporting on this legislation is high. The information comes from official state communications and reputable news outlets that have covered the bill's passage and implications extensively. For instance, the Governor's official website provides a direct account of the signing and the law's provisions (Governor Bob Ferguson signs bill restricting armed forces). Furthermore, the law's intent to protect state sovereignty and ensure accountability in military actions is echoed in multiple reports (Washington limits armed forces from entering the state, Ferguson Signs Law Limiting Out-of-State Military Entry).
Critically, while some may argue that such restrictions could hinder mutual aid during emergencies, the law explicitly allows for National Guard support through mutual-aid agreements, ensuring that essential services can still be provided without compromising state authority (WA bill to restrict outside National Guard from entering).
Conclusion
The claim that Washington can restrict out-of-state military forces from entering its territory is True. The enactment of House Bill 1321 clearly establishes the legal framework for such restrictions, affirming the Governor's authority over military forces from other states. This law not only reflects Washington's commitment to maintaining control over its military engagements but also aligns with similar legislative actions taken by other states.
Sources
- Blocking Unauthorized Militias from Entering WA
- Governor Bob Ferguson signs bill restricting armed forces ...
- WA bill to restrict outside National Guard from entering ...
- Washington limits armed forces from entering the state ...
- Washington State bill to restrict entry of armed forces ...
- Ferguson signs bill restricting armed forces from entering state
- Ferguson Signs Law Limiting Out-of-State Military Entry
- WA bill to restrict outside National Guard from entering ...
