UPDATE: Los Angeles County has just declared a state of emergency in response to ongoing federal immigration raids, impacting the lives of millions. The emergency proclamation, passed by a 4-1 vote on Tuesday, empowers officials to support residents financially affected by actions from Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).
The declaration, spearheaded by County Supervisors Lindsey P. Horvath and Janice Hahn, aims to address the widespread fear and disruption caused by ICE raids. Los Angeles County houses over 3 million immigrants, and officials report that the raids have led to decreased workplace attendance, local economic disruptions, and strained essential services, including schools and hospitals.
“This is an emergency — and Los Angeles County is treating it as such,” stated Horvath in a press release. She emphasized that declaring a local emergency mobilizes the full weight of county resources to protect immigrant communities targeted by federal actions.
The emergency declaration will facilitate various forms of assistance, including rent relief for tenants struggling due to ICE raids and funding for legal aid services. County supervisors will now have the authority to expedite contracting processes and seek state and federal financial support to mitigate the crisis.
“For months, families have lived under threat and workers have been taken from job sites,” Horvath continued. “This proclamation is about action and speed — it allows us to move faster, coordinate better, and use every tool available to stabilize our communities.”
The emergency status will remain in effect until terminated by the county board, indicating a long-term commitment to addressing the fallout from these federal actions.
As this situation continues to develop, residents and advocates are urged to stay informed about further updates and available resources. The community’s resilience and solidarity are more critical now than ever as Los Angeles County navigates these unprecedented challenges.
This is a developing story. Please check back for updates as the situation evolves.
