A new law in Florida prohibits homeless individuals from sleeping in streets, sidewalks and parks. The legislation requires local governments to provide temporary housing and treatment services for those in need.
House Bill 1365 bans camping and sleeping on public property without certification, with Gov. Ron DeSantis, R, stating it is necessary for public safety.
Critics argue the law does not address root causes of homelessness. Under the law, citizens can sue counties that fail to enforce the ban, though a three-month grace period is in place before lawsuits can begin.
Local organizations are responding by increasing shelter options, such as The Homeless Trust in Miami-Dade, which plans to convert a hotel into housing for seniors.
Counties can designate land for homeless camps, provided they offer basic services like showers and mental health care, and prove a lack of shelter beds.
Concerns have been raised about potential increases in arrests, as Florida has an estimated 31,000 homeless individuals.
