Los Angeles County to Allow Non-Citizens to Hold Government Positions

The Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors voted unanimously to allow LA county to hire non-citizens, except in positions where being a U.S. citizen is required by state and federal law.

The motion declared, “Los Angeles County is a community of immigrants from each corner of the world. They have made Los Angeles County what it is – a county rich in culture, diverse in history, and innovative in so many facets. For instance, immigrants make up 44 percent of the County’s workforce, run small businesses that generate 40 percent of the County’s self-employed income, and pay billions of dollars in federal taxes every year.” The motion expressed that, while the County’s workforce is a representation of the community, “there is room for improvement.”

As of 2018, an estimated 880,000 non-citizens live in Los Angeles County.

The U.S. citizen requirement will remain in place for applicants for Los Angeles County Sheriff Department or any peace officers hired by the county.

The Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors voted unanimously with no discussion to allow LA county to hire non-citizens, except in certain positions. https://t.co/kwusx8pVcY

— NBC 7 San Diego (@nbcsandiego) August 1, 2022

This Board has WAY too much power & influence.

The Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors voted unanimously with no discussion to allow LA county to hire non-citizens, except in positions where being a U.S. citizen is required by state and federal law. pic.twitter.com/yTWXhIvD7c

— Jude Pilgrims A Foreigner In Her Own Land (@RightTo_Write) July 31, 2022

NBC San Diego reported:

During recruitment cycles recruiters have to reject qualified non-U.S. citizens to fill vacant entry-level positions.

“Barriers to employment based on cultural, racial, ethnic, or religious characteristics are contrary to our core values. Citizenship overlaps these demographic characteristics,” shared Los Angeles County Public Defender Ricardo García. “An immigrant’s experience will advance our vision, mission, and values to protect our clients’ legal and human rights and enable us to more readily realize my goal that our employees fully represent the demographics of the population that we serve.”

“The board hopes this new policy will broaden the applicant pool and attract more bilingual candidates,” The Blaze noted.