California Governor Gavin Newsom is poised to sign an executive order that will lead to the dismantlement of homeless encampments across the state.
Breitbart reported that this move comes in response to a Supreme Court ruling that confirmed such actions do not amount to “cruel and unusual punishment” under the Eighth Amendment.
Newsom's decision followed the recent Supreme Court ruling in the case of City of Grants Pass v. Johnson, which took place in late June. The ruling has provided clarity for local officials, affirming that laws against encampments are not inappropriate under the Eighth Amendment.
Supreme Court Justice Neil Gorsuch, in his majority opinion, indicated that these laws are “commonplace” and should be addressed by elected governments rather than federal courts.
Governor Newsom emphasized that state agencies will begin to act “with urgency and dignity” starting Thursday. His executive order, although unable to compel local governments directly, aims to exert political pressure through the allocation of state-controlled funds intended for homelessness prevention and management.
Newsom remarked, “Today’s ruling by the U.S. Supreme Court provides state and local officials the definitive authority to implement and enforce policies to clear unsafe encampments from our streets. This decision removes the legal ambiguities that have tied the hands of local officials for years and limited their ability to deliver on common-sense measures to protect the safety and well-being of our communities.”
California has been grappling with a significant homelessness issue, with around 180,000 individuals reported to be homeless in 2023, most of them unsheltered.
Newsom's administration underscores the importance of addressing this crisis with a focus on respect and human dignity while providing necessary resources to those affected.
The reaction from local officials has been mixed. Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass expressed disappointment with the Supreme Court’s ruling, indicating concerns about its potential consequences. Bass stated, “Today’s decision is not surprising given the make-up of the Court but disappointing nonetheless.”
She further elaborated that the ruling must not become an excuse for cities to use arrests as a solution to homelessness or to shift the problem elsewhere. Bass emphasized, “Neither will work, neither will save lives and that route is more expensive for taxpayers than actually solving the problem.”
Bass insists on continuing the approach that prioritizes housing and supportive services. “We cannot go backwards – we must continue innovating and moving with intention and urgency until every person experiencing homelessness is able to access housing, services and support,” she added.
In contrast, other mayors supported the Supreme Court decision. San Francisco Mayor London Breed announced that San Francisco plans to become “very aggressive and assertive in moving encampments” starting in August. This may include issuing citations to individuals who refuse shelter options.
Lancaster Mayor R. Rex Parris also expressed his readiness for action, stating he began “warming up the bulldozer” shortly after the ruling was announced. These responses highlight the significant differences in how various cities plan to tackle the issue of homelessness.
Moving forward, Newsom's order emphasizes the need for cooperation at all levels of government. He asserted, “The state has been hard at work to address this crisis on our streets. There are simply no more excuses. It’s time for everyone to do their part.”
The Supreme Court’s ruling and Newsom’s subsequent executive order mark a critical juncture in California’s approach to homelessness. While some officials see it as an opportunity to take decisive actions, others caution against measures that could potentially lead to adverse outcomes for the homeless population.
The impact of these developments will be closely watched as state and local governments navigate the complex landscape of homelessness solutions. It remains to be seen to what extent Newsom’s order will influence long-term homelessness strategies and whether it will spur effective and humane interventions.
California Governor Gavin Newsom is set to sign an executive order following a Supreme Court ruling that supports the dismantling of homeless encampments.
The decision has sparked differing reactions among local officials, with some supporting aggressive actions and others cautioning against potentially harmful consequences. The state’s ongoing efforts will aim to address homelessness with dignity, leveraging the clarity provided by the ruling to enforce policies efficiently.
