Tallahassee, Florida – Governor Ron DeSantis of Florida has signed a bill that prohibits camping or sleeping on public property, aiming to provide resources for homeless individuals to get back on their feet. The legislation, set to take effect on October 1, requires municipalities to designate specific public spaces for camping if shelters are full, with approval from the state Department of Children and Families. The bill emphasizes the provision of wraparound services, including mental health care, to address the needs of the state’s homeless population.
During the bill signing, DeSantis and other top Republicans in the Florida Legislature highlighted the importance of maintaining cleanliness and safety on the streets of Florida. The governor stated that this measure aims to prevent cities from resembling places like San Francisco, known for its tent cities and homeless encampments. Critics, however, argue that the legislation unfairly targets a vulnerable population and places constraints on municipalities already struggling to address homelessness within their communities.
Rep. Sam Garrison, the bill’s sponsor, revealed that Florida has allocated $30 million for continuums of care, which coordinate housing and services for homeless individuals. Despite this funding increase, advocates like Megan Sarmento from the Florida Harm Reduction Collective in Tampa believe that more resources are needed to truly address the issue.
As the homeless population in Florida stands at approximately 30,809 individuals, according to the Florida Department of Health, concerns persist about the adequacy of services and resources available. Advocates like Sarmento stress the necessity of access to detox facilities and medications for opioid use disorder, which currently face scarcity or restrictions in certain areas.
Amidst a national rise in homelessness, various states and cities have implemented laws prohibiting living in public spaces or sleeping in tents and cars. The push for such legislation has been supported by conservative groups like the Cicero Institute, which has advocated for restrictions resembling the new Florida law. The debate over homeless encampments continues to spark discussions on the balance between public safety and the rights of vulnerable populations.