A New Law in Florida: Banning Homeless People from Sleeping in Public Spaces
The Law
A new law in Florida is set to ban homeless people from sleeping in public spaces, effective October. The law puts the burden on counties to set up designated areas for people to live, if shelters are full, which must include bathrooms, security, and access to mental health and substance abuse services.
Reactions and Concerns
Governor Ron DeSantis believes that the law will help maintain and ensure that Florida’s streets are clean and safe. However, state Senator Shevrin Jones argues that the bill does not address the root cause of homelessness and instead attempts to "sweep the problem under the rug."
The Impact on Homeless People
We spoke to several people who will be affected by this law. Iris, a 74-year-old woman, has been homeless for three years and lives on a sidewalk near Miami Police headquarters. She expressed concerns about the safety and ability to receive services at the new designated areas.
Bernard, a 72-year-old army veteran and former firefighter, said that he has been trying to get off the streets but has been met with resistance from service providers.
Views from the Street
We also spoke to several others living on the streets, including Jeff, Bryson, Hyka, and Steven, all of whom are living near the Broward Boulevard bus terminal. They shared their thoughts on the new law, with Hyka expressing concerns about the ability of law enforcement to enforce the ban and Steven reflecting on the lack of a solution to long-term homelessness.
The Future of Homelessness in Florida
The new law has raised concerns about the fate of the homeless population in Florida. Homelessness is a pressing issue across the country, and the US Supreme Court is set to rule on a case out of Oregon, which challenges the constitutionality of punishing people for sleeping outside when there is not enough shelter space.
Conclusion
The new law in Florida may push the homeless population to the fringes of society, making them more visible but not more dealt with. The real challenge lies in addressing the root cause of homelessness and providing support services, shelter, and a way out for those stranded on the streets.
FAQs
Q: What is the new law in Florida about?
A: The new law bans homeless people from sleeping in public spaces, effective October.
Q: What are the proposed solutions for the homeless population?
A: The law requires counties to set up designated areas for people to live, if shelters are full, which must include bathrooms, security, and access to mental health and substance abuse services.
Q: How do you think the law will affect the homeless population?
A: Many believe that it will simply push the problem to the fringes of society, making it more visible but not solving the issue of homelessness.
Q: What is the current state of homelessness in the US?
A: Homelessness has reached record levels across the country, and the US Supreme Court is set to rule on a case out of Oregon that challenges the constitutionality of punishing people for sleeping outside when there is not enough shelter space.
