Los Angeles County officials voted on Tuesday to declare a state of emergency in response to ongoing federal immigration raids conducted by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).
The declaration, passed by a 4-1 vote with Supervisor Kathryn Barger opposing, was introduced by County Supervisors Lindsey P.
Horvath and Janice Hahn.
It grants the county authority to provide assistance to residents financially impacted by the ICE actions and to mobilize resources to address the crisis.
Los Angeles County, home to over 3 million immigrants, has experienced widespread fear and disruption due to the raids, which have affected workplace attendance, local economies, and critical services such as schools, hospitals, and places of worship.
The emergency proclamation includes provisions for rent relief for tenants who have fallen behind on payments as a result of the raids, as well as funding for legal aid and other support services.
The declaration enables county supervisors to request state and federal financial assistance and to expedite contracting processes to respond more effectively to the situation.
Lindsey P.
Horvath emphasized that the county is treating the situation as an emergency to align government efforts in support of immigrant communities targeted by federal actions.
The ICE raids began in early June in Los Angeles, sparking demonstrations that occasionally turned violent.
Initially, the deportation efforts were said to focus on undocumented immigrants with criminal records; however, an ABC News analysis in July revealed that an increasing number of migrants without criminal convictions have been arrested under the Trump administration's policies.
Horvath highlighted the prolonged threat faced by families and workers, noting that the proclamation aims to enable faster, better-coordinated actions to protect and stabilize affected communities.
The emergency declaration will remain in effect until the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors decides to terminate it.
The county's response reflects a commitment to stand with immigrant neighbors amid federal enforcement actions.
ABC News reporter Tristan Maglunog contributed to the coverage of this developing story.