In response to escalating immigration enforcement actions by the Trump administration, the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors has approved a motion aimed at enhancing health and social services for immigrant families.
This decision follows recent federal raids in the area, including a significant operation that took place near MacArthur Park, where an estimated 100 federal agents, many identified as U.S. Customs and Border Protection, were present.
Supervisors expressed deep concerns regarding the impact of these raids, noting that they have disrupted community stability and local economies.
Supervisor Hilda Solis highlighted the pervasive fear within immigrant communities, stating, “Fear is deterring residents from going to work, attending church, accessing food, or running errands resulting in devastating impacts to the lives and well-being of immigrant communities.”
Solis also reported an alarming rise in missed medical appointments and cancellations at hospitals and clinics across the county.
The motion, spearheaded by Supervisors Solis and Lindsey Horvath, aims to ensure that immigrant families receive equitable access to essential services.
To address these issues, the board has directed several departments, including Health Services, Mental Health, and Public Health, to collaborate with the Office of Immigrant Affairs.
Their first task will be to evaluate how immigration raids are affecting access to health and social services.
Furthermore, the supervisors are advocating for enhanced virtual healthcare options, including telehealth services and mail delivery for prescriptions.
Education and awareness initiatives are also part of the motion, aimed at informing communities about accessing remote services safely and avoiding fraud.
Supervisor Holly Mitchell voiced her concerns about the potential fallout from President Donald Trump’s “Big, Beautiful Bill,” which could slash Medicaid funding by approximately $800 billion, further straining county resources.
She emphasized the county’s role as the “provider of last resort” in ensuring that all residents have access to healthcare.
In light of the recent immigration actions, Mitchell introduced an amendment requesting a report from the Department of Children and Family Services pertaining to any increase in out-of-home placements and the communication privileges for detained parents to maintain contact with their children.
Supervisor Janice Hahn contributed an additional amendment that focuses on assessing how residents who lack internet access or digital literacy can utilize virtual services.
Hahn also called for an evaluation of the data collection process related to these programs, ensuring it does not jeopardize the safety of immigrants.
In the backdrop of these discussions, Supervisor Horvath pointed to a Fourth of July raid on a family-operated car wash in West Hollywood, which starkly highlighted the separation of families as a direct result of immigration enforcement operations.
She criticized the administration’s claims of family values, stating, “Los Angeles County continues to experience an all-out campaign of racially motivated harassment, intimidation, and kidnapping directed towards hard-working people of color.”
In addition to directing the Department of Children and Family Services to educate parents about designating guardians and expressing preferences for placements, the board also called for collaborative efforts between DCFS and the county Office of Education.
The goal is to develop resources that help parents, guardians, and educators discuss immigration enforcement’s implications with children and youth.
To combat food insecurity within immigrant communities, the Office of Food Systems and related departments have been tasked with ensuring support for home-delivered groceries and meals, while connecting local trusted providers with community organizations that serve these populations.
The motion was passed with all proposed amendments, reflecting the county’s commitment to protecting its immigrant residents amidst an atmosphere of heightened anxiety and uncertainty.
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