LOS ANGELES (Echosphere News) — The Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors is scheduled to vote on a crucial measure aimed at declaring a state of emergency on Tuesday. This declaration is seen as necessary due to the financial challenges faced by residents owing to ongoing federal immigration raids.
If the board approves the motion, it will empower county officials to provide assistance, including potential rent relief for tenants adversely affected by the immigration crackdown. Supervisor Lindsey Horvath indicated that this state of emergency could also facilitate the allocation of state funds for additional services, including legal aid.
Horvath highlighted that residents can apply for rent assistance through an online portal that is expected to launch within two months. Though the measure could lead to an eviction moratorium, that would require a separate motion to be introduced by the supervisors.
Concerns are rising among landlords, who worry that an additional financial burden following previous pandemic-induced restrictions, including a ban on evictions, could compromise their businesses.
The immigration enforcement actions by federal agents have significantly affected the local populace, with immigrants being detained in public spaces, which has created a wave of fear that disrupts communities. Horvath and fellow Supervisor Janice Hahn assert that these raids have dislodged families and destabilized local businesses.
“They are targeting families, disrupting classrooms, silencing workers, and forcing people to choose between staying safe and staying housed,” Horvath stated, emphasizing the necessity for the board to take proactive measures.
However, the proposal currently faces skepticism. Supervisor Kathryn Barger was the only dissenting vote last week, arguing that the situation does not qualify as an emergency and that it could unfairly impact landlords who are already struggling financially.
Opponents of the plan express concern that the continuation of rent payment deferrals due to immigration enforcement could lead to a significant loss of affordable housing in the area, further exacerbating the housing crisis.
