Legal and Local Government Reactions
The Supreme Court recently upheld ordinances in Grants Pass, Oregon, that penalize homeless people for sleeping on public property, ruling that these measures do not violate the Constitution’s Eighth Amendment against cruel and unusual punishment. Following this decision, some local officials, including San Francisco Mayor London Breed, expressed intentions to align with Newsom’s directive.
“San Francisco is already doing what the Governor is calling for, with efforts well underway since long before the Grants Pass ruling,” Breed said, highlighting the city’s significant investments in shelter and housing and its proactive approach that led to a five-year low in street tent count.
In Los Angeles, Mayor Karen Bass reiterated that the city does not criminalize homelessness and instead focuses on housing and services. “For the first time in years, unsheltered homelessness has decreased in Los Angeles because of a comprehensive approach that leads with housing and services, not criminalization,” she stated.
The executive order received varied reactions from public figures. Former Los Angeles City Council member Mike Bonin labeled the order as “horrible,” while California Assembly Member Alex Lee deemed it both ineffective and “morally wrong.” However, Los Angeles County Supervisor Kathryn Barger supported Newsom’s decision, emphasizing the need for cities to develop housing and shelter solutions alongside support services provided by County government. “This formula, which is largely based on partnerships, is how we can deliver permanent results. No single entity can achieve that,” Barger stated.
