California has enacted a new law that protects outreach workers assisting homeless individuals, preventing cities from punishing these service providers even if their clients are residing in illegal encampments. The legislation, signed into law by Governor Gavin Newsom, will take effect on January 1, 2024, and aims to support those providing essential services to unhoused residents.
The law, known as Senate Bill 634, was initially proposed by Democratic Senator Sasha Renée Pérez from Pasadena. Pérez’s original intent was to prohibit cities from citing or arresting homeless individuals for sleeping outside. However, following significant opposition from local governments and law enforcement agencies, the bill was modified to focus specifically on protecting outreach workers.
Under the new regulations, cities cannot restrict individuals or organizations from delivering necessary services such as legal assistance, medical care, food, water, blankets, and other survival essentials to homeless residents. Pérez emphasized the importance of this legislation, stating, “The legislation provides commonsense protections for service providers, especially non-profits and faith-based ones, who are doing the work every day to assist unhoused Californians.”
Despite the intentions behind the law, some local authorities express concern regarding its implications. San Bernardino County officials argue that it undermines local governance and limits the enforcement tools available to maintain public safety. They believe that the law could hinder efforts to manage homeless encampments effectively.
The backdrop to this legislation includes a broader statewide trend toward increased enforcement against homelessness. Earlier in 2024, the U.S. Supreme Court granted cities enhanced authority to cite and arrest individuals for sleeping outdoors, even when no shelter options are available. As a result, many Californian cities have witnessed a surge in arrests and citations for homelessness-related offenses.
The passage of SB 634 reflects a growing recognition of the need to support outreach workers who often find themselves in difficult positions during local crackdowns on homeless encampments. For example, the city of Fremont had briefly considered making it a misdemeanor to “aid, abet or conceal” illegal encampments, although this language was later retracted after public outcry. Such incidents have resonated with state legislators, highlighting the challenges faced by those seeking to assist vulnerable populations.
As California grapples with a persistent homeless crisis, the implementation of SB 634 will likely be closely monitored by advocates and local governments alike. The law seeks to balance public safety with the need for compassion and support for those experiencing homelessness, marking a significant shift in the state’s approach to this pressing social issue.
