Webinar Will Support Small Businesses, Nonprofits With Immigration Enforcement Guidance

On Wednesday, the Los Angeles County Department of Economic Opportunity and Public Counsel’s Community Development Project will hold a free one-hour webinar titled “Know Your Rights: Small Businesses & Nonprofits.” Delivered via Constant Contact, the session aims to help small businesses and nonprofits prepare for immigration enforcement scenarios through practical legal guidance. 

Topics will include recognizing workplace rights during ICE visits, building protective internal policies, and navigating enforcement raids. 

DEO Director Kelly LoBianco and Doug Smith, director of policy and coalition building at Public Counsel, will lead the discussion. LoBianco spotlights the county’s investment in small business aid, stating,”Access to no-cost legal support is crucial for small businesses rebuilding after adversity—our partnership with Public Counsel delivers that help at scale.” 

The webinar builds on Public Counsel’s January FAQ, which details key protections such as the right to remain silent and to bar entry without a judicial warrant. “Written policies are valuable tools to protect your clients’ and organization’s legal rights if immigration enforcement arrives at your facility,” the guidance explains. 

The session is part of the County’s $3 million Regional Small Business Legal Aid Program, launched May 9, which has provided free assistance to over 1,000 firms to date. Marketing emphasizes accessibility regardless of immigration status, consistent with County emergency-resource principles. Promotion for the event appears through LinkedIn, Instagram, X, and city partner channels, including the Altadena Chamber and the City of Bell Gardens. 

Senior staff attorney Ritu Mahajan Estes, who co-authored related immigration policy briefs, will support the program and refer participants to Bet Tzedek for additional employer-focused guidance. Smith will encourage attendees to explore supplementary legal advisories from Lowenstein Sandler and NYLPI. 

Zoom link: https://opportunity-lacounty.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_y7s nBJtSSPi9XZbG_5j7Zg#/registration