LA Vendor ICE Raids
September 20, 2025
Los Angeles food vendors say recent immigration raids have left once-busy streets looking like a “ghost town.” Taco trucks, street stands, and markets report sales dropping by more than half as customers stay home in fear. Some vendors have shut down temporarily, comparing the sudden collapse in business to the early days of COVID.
The situation highlights how fragile vendor livelihoods can be when outside pressures—whether health crises, ordinances, or enforcement actions—disrupt community life. Fresno vendors can take note: strong networks and mutual support are essential for resilience in uncertain times.
Street Vendor Protection Act
September 20, 2025
California lawmakers have approved the Street Vendor Business Protection Act, aimed at strengthening protections for immigrant street vendors. The bill now awaits the Governor’s signature.
If signed, SB 635 will prevent cities like Fresno from asking vendors about immigration status, requiring fingerprints or background checks, or sharing personal data such as addresses and phone numbers with immigration enforcement. Permit offices would also have to accept alternative IDs—like driver’s licenses, ITINs, or municipal IDs—rather than just Social Security numbers.
Supporters say the measure will make it safer for immigrant entrepreneurs to apply for permits and operate openly, without fear their information could be used against them. For Fresno vendors, this could mean more security, stronger community participation, and a clearer path to running a permitted business.
September 20, 2025
Los Angeles food vendors say recent immigration raids have left once-busy streets looking like a “ghost town.” Taco trucks, street stands, and markets report sales dropping by more than half as customers stay home in fear. Some vendors have shut down temporarily, comparing the sudden collapse in business to the early days of COVID.
The situation highlights how fragile vendor livelihoods can be when outside pressures—whether health crises, ordinances, or enforcement actions—disrupt community life. Fresno vendors can take note: strong networks and mutual support are essential for resilience in uncertain times.
Street Vendor Protection Act
September 20, 2025
California lawmakers have approved the Street Vendor Business Protection Act, aimed at strengthening protections for immigrant street vendors. The bill now awaits the Governor’s signature.
If signed, SB 635 will prevent cities like Fresno from asking vendors about immigration status, requiring fingerprints or background checks, or sharing personal data such as addresses and phone numbers with immigration enforcement. Permit offices would also have to accept alternative IDs—like driver’s licenses, ITINs, or municipal IDs—rather than just Social Security numbers.
Supporters say the measure will make it safer for immigrant entrepreneurs to apply for permits and operate openly, without fear their information could be used against them. For Fresno vendors, this could mean more security, stronger community participation, and a clearer path to running a permitted business.
