Governor Newsom Pushes for Model Ordinances to Combat California Homelessness Crisis

Governor Gavin Newsom has renewed his focus on tackling the state’s homelessness crisis, urging counties and cities across California to adopt a set of model ordinances aimed at curbing encampments. The announcement came this morning alongside a pledge of $3.3 billion in funding that will be made available to communities seeking to address the issue.

According to state estimates, more than 180,000 people in California experienced homelessness over the past year, making it one of the most pressing challenges facing the state.

The guidelines proposed by Newsom include provisions to make it unlawful to construct or maintain semi-permanent structures on public property, prohibit camping on public land for more than three consecutive days, and prevent individuals from sitting, sleeping, or camping on any path that blocks pedestrian passage.

The governor framed the plan as a balanced approach that encourages local governments to act while providing critical funding support to ensure humane and effective solutions.

The proposed ordinances and funding are expected to spark further debate as cities and counties weigh their responsibilities and resources in addressing the ongoing homelessness emergency.

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