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 was introduced by County Supervisors Lindsey P.
Horvath and Janice Hahn and passed by a 4-1 vote, with Supervisor Kathryn Barger opposing.
This proclamation empowers the county to provide assistance to residents financially impacted by the ICE actions and to mobilize resources to address the crisis.
The county, home to over 3 million immigrants, has experienced widespread fear and disruption due to the raids.
Supervisors noted that the raids have led to decreased attendance at workplaces, disruptions in local economies, and strain on critical services such as schools, hospitals, and places of worship.
Among the provisions included in the emergency declaration are rent relief for tenants who have fallen behind due to the raids and funding for legal aid and other supportive services.
The emergency declaration allows county supervisors to request state and federal financial assistance and to expedite contracting processes to respond effectively to the impacts of the raids.
Lindsey P.
Horvath emphasized the urgency of the situation, stating that the county is treating the circumstances as an emergency and aligning all government resources to support immigrant communities targeted by federal actions.
The ICE raids began in early June in Los Angeles, sparking demonstrations that sometimes 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 the Trump administration has increasingly arrested migrants without criminal convictions.
Horvath highlighted the prolonged threat faced by families and workers, underscoring the need for swift and coordinated action 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 continues to stand with its immigrant neighbors and is committed to providing support for as long as necessary.
ABC News contributor Tristan Maglunog provided additional reporting on this developing story.