LA County Supervisors Vote to Establish Buffer Zone Against Solicitors

The Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors has voted to pursue a new ordinance aimed at combatting predatory solicitors who target county aid recipients. In a unanimous decision on November 4, 2023, the Board approved a motion to create a designated “predatory solicitation zone” around county office buildings, which will restrict solicitors from approaching vulnerable residents seeking assistance.

The ordinance, proposed in response to ongoing allegations of fraud, will allow for the establishment of a specific buffer zone where solicitors will be prohibited from operating. This measure includes provisions for posting “No Solicitors” signs and imposing penalties for violations. Fourth District Supervisor Janice Hahn emphasized that the initiative intends to create a safer environment for residents. “We are painfully aware of ongoing allegations of fraud and pay-to-sue tactics to file lawsuits against the county. This would be a safe buffer zone, to stop them from targeting our residents,” she stated.

Concerns regarding predatory solicitation have been particularly acute outside the county’s Department of Public Social Services (DPSS) offices, where recipients often face lengthy wait times. Supervisor Kathryn Barger noted that individuals setting up outside these offices create a challenging environment for clients. “Our clients have to go through that maze,” she remarked, highlighting the necessity of this protective measure.

The approved motion, co-authored by Hahn and Second District Supervisor Holly Mitchell, stresses the need to reduce risks associated with solicitation practices that may undermine essential services. This includes preventing solicitors from soliciting sensitive personal information, such as Social Security numbers and EBT card details, which could lead to identity theft.

Los Angeles County has faced numerous issues related to fraudulent solicitation. Reports indicate that some solicitors have targeted individuals waiting in line for government benefits, offering cash payments to persuade them to file false lawsuits against the county. According to Hahn, amounts offered can reach as high as $200, further complicating the county’s ongoing legal battles.

The county has already dealt with significant financial repercussions from fraudulent claims. In April 2023, Los Angeles County settled $4 billion for claims related to sexual abuse against county employees, involving approximately 6,800 individuals. More recently, the county agreed to an additional settlement of $828 million for 414 further claims.

Concerns have also arisen regarding the implications of Assembly Bill 218, which extended the statute of limitations for filing sexual abuse claims by 14 years. Hahn described the unintended consequences of this legislation, stating, “Because of unintended consequences from AB 218, the county is left defenseless from fraudulent claims.” Barger echoed this sentiment, calling for reforms to protect taxpayers and prevent individuals from being manipulated in the legal system.

The new ordinance seeks to address these issues by requiring several county departments to report back to the Board within 60 days on the feasibility of establishing the buffer zone. The supervisors aim to coordinate with local cities to implement bans on predatory solicitation around public-serving county facilities, particularly near DPSS offices.

In the interim, Hahn has urged DPSS Chief Jackie Contreras to expedite the movement of lines indoors to minimize exposure to solicitors. “Clearly, what you are doing now is not enough,” she asserted, stressing the urgency of addressing this pressing concern.

As Los Angeles County moves forward with this initiative, it aims to provide a safer and more equitable environment for its residents, ensuring that those in need of essential services can access them without fear of exploitation.