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.
