On Tuesday, Los Angeles County leaders voted to maintain their current strategy for handling homelessness, firmly rejecting Governor Gavin Newsom's call to clear encampments across the state. The county’s board of supervisors, representing a region with over 75,000 homeless individuals and 88 cities, unanimously approved a resolution affirming their commitment to avoiding the criminalization of homelessness.
The board’s decision reflects a unified stance among local leaders to continue their approach of offering supportive services rather than enforcing punitive measures. Supervisor Hilda Solis, a co-author of the motion, emphasized the importance of addressing homelessness at the local level. “Some things are better deliberated at the local level,” she said.
Sheriff Robert Luna supports this approach, stating his commitment to focus on criminal behavior rather than penalizing individuals for their homelessness. “Being homeless is not a crime,” Sheriff Luna remarked. “Our focus will remain on criminal behavior, not on someone’s status.” Los Angeles County’s “care first” philosophy emphasizes humane treatment and a coordinated effort to connect individuals with supportive services and eventually, permanent housing.
Governor Newsom's recent directive to dismantle homeless encampments comes in response to a Supreme Court ruling that upholds a ban on outdoor sleeping in an Oregon city—a decision likely to influence policies nationwide. Newsom’s push for more aggressive enforcement contrasts with Los Angeles County’s stance, which prioritizes compassionate outreach and practical solutions.
Va Lecia Adams Kellum, CEO of the Los Angeles Homeless Services Authority, explained that criminalizing homelessness only exacerbates the problem by creating additional obstacles for individuals seeking housing. Supervisor Kathryn Barger criticized the idea of issuing tickets to homeless people as “ludicrous” and contrary to the county’s efforts to build trust and offer support.
Despite some residents’ frustrations with encampments and the need for more mental health and drug rehabilitation services, Los Angeles leaders remain focused on their strategy. The county's recent annual homeless count indicated a 2.2% overall decrease in homelessness, with a notable 10.4% drop in those living on the streets, in tents, or in cars. This marked the first decline in six years.
While Mayor Karen Bass’ Inside Safe program, which provides temporary housing through motel rooms, has shown positive results, Supervisor Lindsey Horvath acknowledged the complexity of the issue. “We are all frustrated with encampments blocking sidewalks and RVs lining our roads,” she said. “However, simply clearing tents won’t resolve the underlying problem.”
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The board’s decision, though not specifically aimed at Newsom’s executive order, signifies a clear divergence from the state’s proposed approach, reinforcing Los Angeles County’s commitment to its current methods in addressing homelessness.
