The definition of "adequate shelter" is at the heart of debates raging across California in the five years since a federal appeals court ruled that it’s cruel and unusual punishment to evict homeless people from public spaces when they have no other options.
California has spent billions of dollars in recent years to reduce homelessness, but the problem is only getting worse. Lawmakers should consider involving the private sector and repeal laws that make it too expensive to build housing.
After weeks of negotiations, state legislators will start voting today on a budget deal that sets spending and policy across a wide range of issues affecting Californians.
The latest Point-in-Time census showed slight decreases in the number of unhoused individuals counted across Santa Clara County and in the City of San José.
California cities of every size lack shelter beds for the state’s growing homeless population. A new bill would force local governments to do more, and punish cities that don’t plan housing for unhoused residents.
AB 1657 would authorize $10 billion in general obligation bonds to provide funding for affordable rental housing for lower income families, homeownership opportunities, and supportive housing for people experiencing homelessness.
Sen. Dave Cortese of San Jose began pushing for the audit after touring a massive homeless encampment on vacant land near the San Jose Mineta International Airport. San Jose will be one of two cities targeted by the audit.
Tiny homes from the state will help the City of San Jose reach Mayor Matt Mahan’s ambitious goal of sheltering 1,000 unhoused residents by the end of the year.
The board approved more funds for senior housing, a land swap for supportive housing in Cupertino, an investment into rental assistance with seven non-profits, a new housing development in Milpitas and more affordable housing in Mountain View, some specifically for foster youth.
