The U.S. Supreme Court has agreed to hear a case that tackles the issue of whether cities in Western states can ban homeless individuals from sleeping in public areas. This decision comes after the 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals ruled against anti-camping ordinances in Grants Pass, Oregon, deeming them unconstitutional as they violate the Eighth Amendment’s prohibition of “cruel and unusual punishment.” Grants Pass, with the support of California Governor Gavin Newsom, appealed the ruling due to the growing homelessness crisis in the state.
The ruling has implications for nine western states, including Alaska, Arizona, California, Hawaii, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, Oregon, and Washington. It also raises questions about the rights and treatment of homeless individuals across the country.
A separate panel from the 9th circuit also ruled in favor of homeless individuals, stating that laws banning them from using blankets, pillows, or cardboard boxes for protection from the elements are unjust. This decision highlights the ongoing debate over the balance between public safety and the rights of homeless individuals.
Former MLB player and California Republican Senate candidate Steve Garvey emphasized the need for compassion and practical solutions when addressing homelessness. After visiting homeless shelters in San Diego and Skid Row in Los Angeles, Garvey acknowledged the harsh realities faced by those living on the streets. He stressed the importance of upholding public safety while approaching homelessness with empathy and practicality.
Governor Newsom expressed frustration with the limitations imposed by court decisions, stating that California has invested billions of dollars to address homelessness. He filed an amicus brief in September, urging the Supreme Court to allow state and local governments to take reasonable actions in addressing the homelessness crisis. Newsom hopes the Supreme Court’s intervention will help expedite efforts to clear encampments and deliver necessary services to those in need.
This case is not the first of its kind. In 2018, a similar ruling in Boise, Idaho, found that penalizing the homeless for sleeping on the street when shelters are not available violates the Eighth Amendment. The Supreme Court’s decision on the Grants Pass case will have far-reaching implications for how cities and states handle homelessness.
Proponents of the ban argue that allowing homeless individuals to stay in encampments can lead to increased crime, fires, the spread of diseases, and environmental harm. On the other hand, advocates for homeless individuals argue that punishing them for merely existing without access to shelter is inhumane. They believe blaming the judiciary for the homelessness crisis is a cynical tactic to deflect attention from failed policies and lack of effective solutions.
The Supreme Court’s decision in this case will influence how cities and states across the country address homelessness and balance the rights of individuals with public safety concerns. It remains to be seen how the court will navigate this complex issue and provide guidance on this humanitarian crisis.
The Associated Press contributed to this report. Stay updated on the latest from the 2024 campaign trail, exclusive interviews, and more political content by subscribing to our newsletter.
