California Governor Gavin Newsom's order directs state agencies on how to dismantle the thousands of tents and makeshift shelters that line freeways, fill shopping center parking lots, and occupy city parks. The order clarifies that the decision to remove the encampments lies with local authorities.

 

This directive follows a U.S. Supreme Court decision earlier this summer, which allows cities to enforce bans on sleeping outdoors in public spaces. The case was the most significant on the issue to come before the high court in decades and comes as cities across the country struggle with the politically complex issue of rising homelessness and public frustration over related health and safety concerns.

 

"We must act with urgency to address dangerous encampments," Newsom said in a statement.

Although Newsom cannot directly order local authorities to act, his administration can exert pressure by withholding funds from counties and cities.

Newsom has made homelessness a central issue during his tenure as California governor. Earlier this year, he promoted a ballot measure to allow the state to borrow nearly $6.4 billion to build 4,350 housing units.

 

The order comes amid increased Republican criticism of California's homelessness crisis. This occurs as Vice President Kamala Harris, a former district attorney, attorney general, and senator from California, launches her presidential campaign. Harris entered the race over the weekend following President Joe Biden's announcement that he would not seek reelection.