The Santa Monica City Council voted 4-3 to remove a section of its anti-camping ordinance, allowing those experiencing homelessness to use essential bedding outdoors.
Critics warn that the amendment could force vulnerable individuals to discard necessary bedding items, exacerbating their challenges while also increasing police enforcement powers.
Proponents of the amendment argue it provides police with necessary tools to engage homeless individuals and foster relationships to assist them in finding shelter.
Police Chief Ramon Batista emphasized that the enforcement of laws concerning public sleeping remains unchanged, focusing instead on regulating encampments in public spaces.
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