LA County considering funding legal help for undocumented immigrants
Supervisor Hilda Solis
State and local governments continue to brace themselves for the oncoming Trump immigration policies. Concern with legal representation long has been a concern for immigrants in removal proceedings. The immigration laws do not guarantee representation to immigrants facing possible removal from the United States and separation from family, employment, and community.
KPCC in Los Angeles reports that Los Angeles County supervisors, which governs the county that is the home of one of the largest immigrant communities in the United States, are expected to consider next week whether to set aside an initial $1 million to help cover legal services for unauthorized immigrants facing deportation.
The proposal from supervisors Janice Hahn and Hilda Solis would direct the county to earmark the funds for the current fiscal year to help immigrants living in the county without authorization. By some estimates, they number more than 800,000.
Nonprofit legal providers that serve immigrant clients would administer the program, according to Hahn’s office. More funds would be sought next year.
The move to fund immigrant legal assistance comes as California state and local officials prepare to oppose President-elect Donald Trump‘s pledge to deport millions of immigrants living in the country illegally.
KJ