17 Jul Address Homelessness with Proven Solutions Not Criminal Penalties
In the recent Supreme Court decision of Grants Pass v. Johnson, Justice Neil Gorsuch wrote the opinion that cities may use anti-camping ordinances against unhoused individuals without violating the Constitution. Essentially, this means that a community can criminalize sleeping in public, even when no alternative place for rest exists.
In Grants Pass, Oregon, and now across the country, violators face steep fines. For example, the initial fine in Grant Pass County is $295, which increases to $537.50 if left unpaid. Additionally, after receiving two citations, police can issue an order banning individuals from Grants Pass city property. Violating this order can result in criminal trespass charges, carrying penalties of up to 30 days in jail and a $1,250 fine.
This ruling raises fundamental concerns about protecting homeless individuals who have no choice but to sleep in public spaces to survive. Instead of relying on punitive measures and setting a dangerous precedence, cities should explore more effective and compassionate solutions. Evidence suggests that policies like creating affordable housing and shelter beds can be successful. For example, programs like the Family Promise Interfaith Hospitality Network provide emergency housing and support to those in need. In 2023, Family Promise Montco PA provided 10,344 bed-nights of shelter, demonstrating the impact of community efforts.
The problem of homelessness is multifaceted, with rising housing costs exacerbating the issue. Between 2019 and 2022, the median house price in the U.S. increased by 25%, while rents rose by 30% over a seven-year period from 2015 to 2022. A lack of affordable housing remains a significant concern for nearly half of Americans. The Pew Research Center reports that homeownership is viewed as essential to the American Dream, and 79% of those surveyed consider it more important than having a successful career. Additionally, nearly half of Americans identify a lack of affordable housing as a major problem in their communities.
Why should we care? Homelessness is often just one paycheck or a missed payment away. According to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, more than 650,000 people in the U.S. experience homelessness every night, and more than 400 of our neighbors in Montgomery County are currently homeless. Instead of punitive measures, cities should explore alternatives for all ages. Solutions include providing more accessible, attainable, and safe housing options, addressing mental health and addiction issues, and implementing evidence-based approaches like the “housing first” model. The Housing First assistance approach prioritizes providing permanent housing to people experiencing homelessness, thus ending their homelessness and serving as a platform from which they can pursue personal goals and improve their quality of life. This approach is guided by the belief that people need basic necessities like food and a place to live to rebuild their lives. Recognizing housing as a basic right and advocating for proven solutions at the local, state, and national levels, we can work toward ending homelessness and supporting those in need.