Nov. 29 (UPI) -- After debate on the matter that lasted for decades, Los Angeles lawmakers have voted to decriminalize street vending -- ahead of a similar state law that kicks in next year.

Though street vending has been illegal for years, the city has done little to stop it. About 20,000 vendors operate freely in the city and many are immigrants, KNBC-TV reported.


Los Angeles was believed to be the last major city to outlaw the practice until the city council voted unanimously in favor of the changes Wednesday.

The city moved to decriminalize vending, fearing the Trump administration's immigration policies might put some vendors at risk of deportation. However, they can still be ticketed and fined.

Business groups have pushed for new regulations, arguing areas like the Hollywood Walk of Fame are too congested to accommodate vendors safely. Under the new rules, vendors will still be barred around busy areas like the Walk of Fame, Universal Studios, Dodger Stadium and the Hollywood Bowl during major events.

Debate has endured for years on the issue -- with concerns about where and how vending should be allowed, blocked sidewalks, garbage and business-related matters. City lawmakers were still trying to solve the problem when legislators passed a new state law that bars cities from restricting vendors, unless there are "objective health, safety, or welfare concerns." It takes effect in January.

For the most part, vendors applauded Wednesday's decision.

"This means freedom," said Aureliano Santiago, who sells ice cream and hot dogs in MacArthur Park. "The police won't pester us anymore. They'll go after delinquents instead."

Edgar Suy, who sells corn and churros to support his mother and children in Guatemala, said vendors have been treated for years like rats.

"That's how they treated us -- the government, the police, the business owners," Suy said. "Now we can come out of the shadows. ... We aren't a menace to society."