Newsom issues executive order to remove homeless encampments in California

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SACRAMENTO, Calif. — California Gov. Gavin Newsom issued an executive order Thursday to direct state agencies on how to remove homeless encampments, a month after a Supreme Court ruling allowing cities to enforce bans on sleeping outside in public spaces.

Newsom’s order is aimed at the thousands of tents and makeshift shelters across the state that line freeways, clutter shopping center parking lots and fill city parks. The order makes clear that the decision to remove the encampments remains in local hands.

abcnews.go.com/Politics/wireStory/newsom-issues-executive-order-removal-homeless-encampments-california-112277630

Key Points of the Executive Order

Directive to State Agencies:
- The order directs state agencies to identify and dismantle homeless encampments on state land. This includes areas such as freeway underpasses, parks, and other public spaces.
- Agencies are required to work with local service providers to offer support and assistance to those being displaced.
Local Authority Involvement:
- While the executive order provides a framework, the actual removal of encampments will be carried out by local authorities. The state can apply pressure by withholding funds from counties and cities that do not comply.
Supreme Court Ruling:
- The Supreme Court ruling that influenced this order overturned previous restrictions that required sufficient shelter beds before removing people from public property. This ruling has given states and cities more leeway in addressing homelessness.
Political and Social Context:
- Homelessness has been a significant issue in California, with encampments becoming more visible and public frustration growing over related health and safety concerns.
- Newsom’s administration has invested billions of dollars in addressing homelessness, but the governor has argued that court decisions have previously limited local governments’ ability to act effectively.