The U.S. Supreme Court is considering a case that could make it easier for cities to clear homeless encampments, even if shelter beds are not available. The case has major implications for California, which has the highest homeless population in the nation. Homeless advocates argue that a ruling in favor of the city would lead to increased criminalization of homelessness and inhumane sweeps. Cities contend that they need more flexibility to address the crisis, as few have the resources to provide shelter for all their unhoused residents.