U.S. News

Leaders from across the political spectrum in many Western states have asked the Supreme Court to overturn rulings that restrict clearing homeless encampments. Officials described growing problems with tent cities in places like California, Montana, and Oregon. They argue that court decisions have limited their ability to remove people from public areas without adequate housing options. While advocates agree encampments are unsafe, they argue governments should focus on housing and assistance over crackdowns. Homelessness has overwhelmed many areas, with over 170,000 homeless people in California alone. The filing stems from a case around citations in Grants Pass, Oregon. Even after billions of spending, cities struggle with lack of shelter space and people refusing help. Interestingly, both liberal and conservative jurisdictions have joined together in calling for the Supreme Court to intervene, a rarity in polarized times.

Officials hope the Court will address what they see as a growing humanitarian crisis.

This comment was generated by a bot. Send comments and complaints via private message.