Los Angeles County Votes on Emergency Declaration Amid Immigration Raids

Mon Oct 20 2025 21:33:39 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

In a critical move, LA County officials are set to decide on a state of emergency declaration aimed at supporting residents affected by federal immigration raids. This measure could provide rent relief and funnel state funds for legal aid.

Los Angeles County's Board of Supervisors is voting on a declaration of emergency to assist residents facing financial hardship due to federal immigration enforcement actions. If approved, this could allow for rental assistance, potential eviction moratoriums, and legal aid funding. While some officials advocate for the measure as a necessary response to ongoing fear and disruption caused by immigration raids, concerns over the financial impact on landlords are evident. The board's previous discussions indicate a division regarding the emergency's validity, with warnings of possible legal challenges.

LOS ANGELES (PulseWire) — Los Angeles County officials are set to vote Tuesday on a significant declaration that would enable them to assist residents reportedly suffering financially from ongoing federal immigration raids.

The proposed state of emergency would empower the LA County Board of Supervisors to offer rent relief for tenants who have been unable to keep up with payments amid stringent immigration enforcement. This declaration may also pave the way to secure state funds for legal aid and other vital services.

According to Supervisor Lindsey Horvath’s office, individuals will have an opportunity to apply for the rent assistance through an online portal expected to launch within two months. If enacted, this motion could also open discussions for an eviction moratorium, although that would necessitate further action by the supervisors.

Concerns are growing among landlords who fear further financial strain after enduring a lengthy ban on evictions and rental increases throughout the COVID-19 pandemic.

Since June, the Los Angeles area has seen heightened tensions as part of the Trump administration’s aggressive immigration strategy, which has led to protests and previous deployments of the National Guard and Marines. Immigrants, including those without legal status, have been targeted in raids across various locations, stirring fear and uncertainty within the community.

Following widespread criticism, Supervisors Horvath and Janice Hahn emphasized that these immigration actions have destabilized households and local businesses. They contend that the declaration is a necessary countermeasure to combat the fear and disruption experienced by families and workers, with Horvath stating, “We need to fight back.”

While the majority of the board voted 4-1 in favor of considering the emergency declaration, Supervisor Kathryn Barger expressed concerns that such a declaration does not meet the criteria for an emergency and could place undue hardship on landlords. She warned of potential legal challenges similar to those seen during the COVID-19 eviction moratorium.

Landlords have echoed concerns about the ongoing financial repercussions, noting that some are still recovering from substantial losses during the pandemic era. Daniel Yukelson, CEO of the Apartment Association of Greater Los Angeles, stated that while there is sympathy for affected tenants, there is little evidence that immigration enforcement directly impacts tenants' ability to pay rent.

As the debate continues, LA County's decision may significantly shape the landscape for both tenants and landlords amid ongoing immigration-related tensions.