Florida Legislature Passes Bill to Ban Homeless Encampments on Public Property

The bill, supported by Governor Ron DeSantis, aims to address public nuisance concerns by designating specific areas for homeless encampments.

Florida's Senate passed a bill prohibiting homeless people from setting up camp or sleeping on public property without state authorization.
Governor Ron DeSantis supports the bill, which allows counties to designate areas for homeless encampments with state Department of Children and Families approval.
The bill's proponents argue it will facilitate the provision of local services to the homeless and address public nuisance issues.
Critics claim the bill fails to tackle the root causes of homelessness and raises concerns about the safety and sanitation of designated encampments.
The bill is set to take effect on October 1, 2024, if signed into law by Governor DeSantis.