Los Angeles County is considering a bold move: declaring a state of emergency to protect immigrant communities from a surge in U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) raids. The proposal, set to be debated by the Board of Supervisors, aims to coordinate county resources to prevent evictions and reduce financial instability among residents facing federal enforcement actions.
This effort comes as many cities and counties across California engage in a legal battle with the Trump administration over immigration policies. By invoking a state of emergency, Los Angeles County could streamline access to legal aid, emergency housing support and social services for families at risk.
Advocates say recent ICE operations have intensified, fueling fear across neighborhoods and forcing mixed-status households into precarious situations. Without county intervention, they warn, evictions and job losses could rise, deepening economic stress.
A local community organizer emphasized that families need a safety net and that declaring an emergency sends a clear message that Los Angeles stands with its residents.
If approved, the declaration would place Los Angeles among the growing list of jurisdictions using every tool at their disposal to challenge federal enforcement practices and protect their communities.
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Los Angeles County considers state of emergency amid ICE raids
cgtn.com
