Fremont Passes Sweeping Ban on Homeless Encampments and Aid
The new ordinance criminalizes camping on public property and includes penalties for those assisting homeless individuals, raising concerns among advocates.
- The Fremont City Council voted 6-1 to pass a new anti-camping ordinance, prohibiting homeless encampments and penalizing those who assist in setting them up.
- Violators of the law, including those 'aiding or abetting' encampments, face up to six months in jail and a $1,000 fine, though officials claim enforcement will be rare.
- Advocates and service providers warn that vague language in the law could hinder efforts to provide food, clothing, or other support to unhoused individuals.
- The ordinance follows a 2024 Supreme Court ruling allowing cities to ban outdoor sleeping without needing to offer shelter, with over 40 California cities adopting similar measures.
- Critics argue the policy criminalizes homelessness and charity while failing to address the lack of shelter beds or affordable housing solutions in Fremont.
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