California Governor Gavin Newsom has issued an executive order directing state agencies to adopt policies for the humane removal of homeless encampments from state-owned properties. This directive, announced on Thursday, follows a significant Supreme Court ruling that permits cities to enforce bans on sleeping in public spaces.
The Supreme Court's decision in the case of City of Grants Pass v. Johnson allows municipalities to limit homeless encampments, providing legal clarity that state and local officials can now act upon. This ruling is expected to influence similar policies across the country, particularly in Western states grappling with high homelessness rates.
Why didn't the VIEW ask Schiff about the 24 BILLION unaccounted for funds for the homeless as Newsome orders homeless encampments torn down. Since he is running for Senator why didn't they ask why he wears baby clothes, takes picture with a baby between his legs, and what… pic.twitter.com/Htuc9Q89on
— House of Life University (@mcwright349026) July 26, 2024
Newsom's order calls for local governments to follow suit, emphasizing the need for a balanced approach that considers both enforcement and compassionate support. The directive aims to address the sprawling tent cities that have become common along freeways, in parking lots, and in parks throughout the state. The governor's administration has spent approximately $24 billion on various programs to tackle homelessness, including a significant investment in converting rundown motels into housing units.
Despite these efforts, the challenge remains daunting. Cities like Tulare and Los Angeles have struggled to provide enough shelter beds and permanent housing solutions. For instance, Tulare used its state grant to clear five encampments, but only a fraction of the residents found permanent housing. The rest were relocated to sanctioned encampments with tents.
I know I said last week I though Kamala would be the new Candidate but I'm not so sure now. She has been polling about even with Biden Nationally but even worse in important swing states. I'm sure behind the scenes everyone from Hillary to Newsome is jockeying for position. pic.twitter.com/FDbql0gcMJ
— 🇺🇸🇺🇸Red White and True News🇺🇸🇺🇸 (@RWTNews) July 21, 2024
The governor's directive underscores the need for local authorities to provide notice before clearing encampments, connect homeless individuals with services, and store their belongings for at least 60 days. This approach is designed to mitigate the immediate impacts of displacement while longer-term housing solutions are developed.
Several California mayors have expressed support for Newsom's order. Sacramento Mayor Darrell Steinberg, an advisor to the governor on homelessness, stated that the guidance aligns with his city's approach of "compassionate enforcement." He noted that simply enforcing bans without providing housing solutions would not resolve the underlying issues.
However, housing advocates argue that such sweeps are inhumane and ineffective. They insist that more housing, rather than enforcement, is the key to addressing homelessness. Critics warn that arresting or fining individuals for sleeping outdoors exacerbates the problem and diverts resources from more permanent solutions.
The new policies come as California cities prepare to apply for the latest round of state encampment resolution funds. The state's $750 million Encampment Resolution Fund aims to assist local efforts to clear encampments and provide housing, though the allocation of funds and their effectiveness have been subjects of debate.
How many times in the last several years have we had to step back and say”what were those people thinking” when it came to democrats and their way of thinking and how they put their thoughts into motion? Now we have Harris to worry about tanking the country!