The issue of homelessness takes center stage in our nation’s Capitol as the U.S. Supreme Court weighs the legality of cities punishing individuals for sleeping outdoors.
Sacramento and California are closely monitoring the case brought by Grants Pass, Oregon, which criminalized sleeping outside. Homeless advocates and unhoused individuals gathered outside the federal courthouse, chanting for “house keys, not handcuffs.”
Joyce Williams, founder of Camp Resolution in North Sacramento, expressed concerns that a ruling in favor of Grants Pass could force her community to relocate. She emphasized the inhumane nature of criminalizing rest.
Amy Gardner, an East Sacramento resident, advocated for stricter measures to address issues related to homelessness, such as sidewalk ordinances or daytime camping laws. She criticized the city’s lack of action, arguing that it disadvantages both unhoused individuals and taxpayers.
During oral arguments, the justices delved into various perspectives. Attorney Mark Merin pointed to the need for focusing on housing solutions. Governor Gavin Newsom and Sacramento County District Attorney Thien Ho filed briefs supporting the Grants Pass ordinance. Ho attended the oral arguments in Washington, D.C.
The Supreme Court’s decision, expected in June, will have significant consequences for homelessness policies across the nation.
