California Governor Gavin Newsom recently issued an executive order directing state agencies to adopt policies to clear homeless camps on state properties. In addition, Newsom urged local governments to utilize the substantial funding provided by the state to take similar actions. This executive order comes in response to the U.S. Supreme Court’s Grants Pass decision, which reversed a Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals ruling that limited the ability of states and cities to clear homeless encampments without providing adequate shelter options.
Newsom and other California city leaders had previously felt hindered by the Boise decision and similar rulings in other cases, which prevented them from effectively addressing homeless encampments. The recent Supreme Court decision is seen as a game changer, with Newsom stating, “there are no more excuses, it’s time to move with urgency at the local level to clean up these sites.” This shift in legal interpretation has given local governments the tools and authority needed to handle dangerous encampments and provide necessary resources to those residing in them.
Since July 2021, California has successfully resolved over 11,000 encampments and removed 248,275 cubic yards of debris along state rights of way. Governor Newsom emphasized that the state has invested over $1 billion in cleaning up these encampments and has allocated $24 billion for homelessness prevention and affordable housing projects in recent years. This substantial investment demonstrates a commitment to addressing the homelessness crisis in California.
The Big City Mayors, a coalition of the state’s largest cities, have expressed support for Governor Newsom’s executive order. San Diego Mayor Todd Gloria, the chair of the coalition, praised Newsom for his renewed direction and sense of urgency in addressing homelessness. Gloria stressed the need for unity among mayors, local elected officials, state leaders, and housed community members to create more shelter options and housing for those in need.
The urgent need to address homelessness in California is apparent, and Governor Newsom’s executive order marks a crucial step towards addressing this ongoing crisis. The recent legal developments have provided local governments with the authority to take action, and it is imperative that all stakeholders work together to provide effective solutions for those experiencing homelessness. As Mayor Gloria stated, “All of us must be united in acting with purpose to create more shelter options and housing for those in need.” It is time for decisive and meaningful action to be taken to combat homelessness in California.