Sleeping and Homeless Encampments Banned in Specific Areas of Los Angeles

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An intensive ordinance went into effect on Friday that bans sleeping and homeless encampments in specific areas of Los Angeles. The officials made a recent move in an effort to get a handle on the number of homeless people in the region. The City Council approved the ordinance to modify the anti-camping law of the city. The measure bans the storing of property and obstructing the public right-of-way was among other rules. It will also prohibit sleeping and camping in certain areas within 500 feet of property deemed as sensitive use, which includes schools, daycare facilities, public parks, and libraries, once the council passes a resolution naming an area for enforcement, posting signage, and giving notice. Those areas include up to 500 feet of a designated overpass, underpass, and subway.

The measure also includes 1,000 feet of a facility that opened after 1^st January 2018 that provides shelter, safe sleeping, and safe parking or navigation centers for homeless persons. Mayor Eric Garcetti and council President Nury Martinez issued a joint statement. They said enforcement outside obstructions to the Americans with Disability Act and other accessibility obstructions won’t begin until outreach to the homeless has occurred, including connecting them with services and housing. They said, “We don’t need to choose between keeping our public spaces safe and clean, and connecting Angelenos experiencing homelessness with the services and housing they need. We can and will do both, as we respond to this crisis in a way that is compassionate and responsive to the urgent needs in our communities”.

However, opponents argued the ordinance essentially criminalizes homelessness. The measure supporters said it will help get the homeless vital services while combating quality of life issues that have angered residents and businesses owners in some communities. City News Service reported the City Council’s Homelessness and Poverty Committee and its Energy Climate Change, Environmental Justice and River Committee advanced a motion to approve recommendations for a Street Engagement Strategy to accompany the ordinance. The Homeless and Poverty Committee Chair, Mark Ridley Thomas said, “We will only be able to provide the housing and services that are needed if trusted and skilled outreach workers are able to effectively engage. This strategy is the roadmap to do it, and do it well. The full City Council should act swiftly to adopt the Street Engagement Strategy, as time is of the essence”.