The U.S. Supreme Court has ruled that local and state governments can now ticket or arrest those who are sleeping or camping in public places such as sidewalks, streets, parks, and even broken-down vehicles.

The move comes as major cities across the nation are experiencing a spike in homeless encampments.

While some city officials say the ruling will give them time to enforce measures to keep public spaces clean and safe, others believe criminalizing the homeless can only make things worse.

Ediz Tiyansan reports from Los Angeles.

To discuss: 

• Jacquie Luqman is Coordinator for the Black Alliance for Peace DC.
• Mark Horvath is the CEO of Invisible People.
• Joseph Williams is a former Senior Editor at U.S. News & World Report.
• Donald Whithead Junior is the co-founder of Racial Equity Partners and the Executive Director of the National Coalition for the Homeless.

For more:

🚨 Urgent Call to Action! The criminalization of homelessness demands attention NOW. Your monthly gift to Invisible People helps tell the stories that fuel the change we need to stop anti-homeless legislation. Donate today and be a force for good! 🏡✨ https://t.co/TX31TU7atw pic.twitter.com/NHAepZjJhi

— Invisible People ➤ Imagine Everyone With a Home (@invisiblepeople) July 16, 2024

The criminalization of homelessness reflects a lack of understanding and compassion for individuals experiencing homelessness, as well as a failure to address the systemic issues that contribute to this social problem. Communities need to prioritize solutions that are focused on… pic.twitter.com/snFD7SJNvi

— Donald Whitehead (@DWhitehead2020) March 3, 2024