Florida Enacts Controversial Law Banning Homeless People from Sleeping in Public Outdoor Spaces

Banning Homeless People from Sleeping in Public Outdoor Spaces

Florida Enacts Law Banning Homeless from Sleeping in Public Spaces

A new law in Florida took effect on Tuesday, prohibiting homeless individuals from sleeping in outdoor public areas such as streets, sidewalks, and parks. House Bill 1365 mandates that local governments provide temporary housing options, which will come with restrictions against drug use and offer access to substance abuse and mental health treatment.

Governor Ron DeSantis supported the law, stating it strikes the right balance between public safety and the needs of the community. Individuals will be able to sue counties that fail to enforce the ban, although there’s a three-month grace period before legal actions can commence.

As Florida grapples with an estimated 31,000 homeless individuals, reactions to the law have been mixed. Mildred Forti, a Miami resident experiencing homelessness with her husband, criticized the legislation, describing it as “another stupid law” that adds to their struggle to find stable housing.

Ron Book, chairman of the Miami-Dade Homeless Trust, emphasized efforts to create more shelter options, including a new navigation center and plans to convert the La Quinta Hotel into low-income housing for seniors. He noted that initiatives are underway to provide additional beds and shelters to support the homeless population.

Under the new law, local governments may designate county-owned land for homeless individuals to sleep, provided it remains clean and secure, and essential services like showers and mental health support are available. Counties must demonstrate a lack of sufficient shelter beds before receiving approval for such arrangements, ensuring that these efforts do not adversely impact property values or community safety.

Florida Enacts Controversial Law Banning Homeless People from Sleeping in Public Outdoor Spaces