On Monday, California Governor Gavin Newsom called on cities to clear homeless camps and addressed ongoing challenges his administration faces. He announced the release of $3.3 billion in voter-approved funds to enhance housing and treatment options for the homeless. Newsom emphasized that the time for inaction has passed, pointing to rising homelessness as a critical public health and safety issue statewide.
As the first Democratic governor to propose a statewide camping ban, he highlighted that California holds a quarter of the U.S. homeless population, with over 187,000 individuals lacking housing. His model ordinance prohibits “permanent camping” in one place and ensures that local governments notify residents about shelters before clearing encampments. Major cities like Los Angeles and San Francisco are already beginning cleanup efforts, though some advocates warn that disbanding camps could hinder people from accessing stable housing and support services.
Critics and local officials have noted that while Newsom is demanding action, audits reveal that California’s spending on homelessness lacks sufficient tracking and accountability. Despite billions allocated to over 30 programs since 2018, a recent audit indicated little improvement in homelessness conditions. Newsom is also challenging counties to effectively use funds aimed at mental health services for the homeless and has threatened to withhold state funding from those that do not comply.
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