Results for: Camping Ban

Portland Mayor Ted Wheeler has unveiled a revised camping ban ordinance, seeking to address legal challenges and the ongoing homelessness crisis. The new ordinance includes provisions for $100 fines or jail time for homeless individuals refusing shelter offers, but only if available shelter space is provided. Wheeler’s plan faces competition from Commissioner Rene Gonzalez’s proposal, which would concentrate policymaking power under the mayor. Both ordinances will be discussed by the city council on Wednesday, amidst concerns about chronic shelter shortages and the potential impact of a Supreme Court ruling on camping bans.

The U.S. Supreme Court heard arguments in a case that could impact how western U.S. cities enforce penalties for homeless people camping on public property. The Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals ruled that punishing homeless individuals for sleeping in public without access to shelter violates the Eighth Amendment’s prohibition on cruel and unusual punishment. Grants Pass, Oregon, is appealing the decision, arguing that it has led to an increase in homelessness and public safety concerns. The court’s decision could have significant implications for cities’ efforts to address homelessness.