Highland Park Street Vendors Face Uncertainty Amid Proposed 'ICE-Free Zones' on County Property
Street vendors in Highland Park are facing uncertainty following the detention of some of their colleagues by federal agents. The Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors is considering a proposal to create "ICE-free zones" on county-owned property, which would restrict federal immigration enforcement agencies from using these areas for civil immigration enforcement activities. Supervisor Horvath has submitted a motion that would prevent federal immigration enforcement from utilizing county property as staging areas, processing locations, or operations bases for civil immigration enforcement. The proposed ordinance would require clear signage on county property stating that it cannot be used for unauthorized civil law enforcement activities, including civil immigration enforcement. Additionally, county departments would need to obtain permits before allowing any civil law enforcement agency to conduct activities on county property. The potential impact of this ordinance on the county's relationship with the federal government and its funding remains uncertain, as it could lead to federal litigation and jeopardize significant annual federal funding. If approved, this measure could set a national precedent for local resistance to immigration enforcement.