Destiny Torres

L.A.

County is home to some 950,000 immigrants without legal status.

Supervisors say immigration raids have destabilized neighborhoods and created a climate of fear.

Local state of emergencies are typically designated after natural disasters like flooding, earthquakes, and fires, as well as crises like homelessness.

The declaration allows the county to seek financial aid from the state, expedite contracting, and possibly consider an eviction moratorium.

Some business advocates were concerned about the move, saying a moratorium could destabilize housing if passed as a result.

The declaration remains in place until the board moves to end it.

For NPR News, I'm Destiny Torres in Los Angeles.