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John,
Our nation's homelessness crisis calls for immediate and compassionate legislative action to ensure that everyone, regardless of their economic status, has access to affordable housing and protection from inhumane treatment.
The U.S. Supreme Court recently heard a case that would impose fines, ticketing, and arrests on homeless people found sleeping or living in public spaces. This ignorant argument completely disregards the underlying causes of homelessness — a drastic shortage of affordable housing and rising rent costs. The lack of affordable housing has pushed many low-income renters out of their homes. It's time to address the root causes of homelessness and economic inequality, not punish those who are already suffering most.
Sign the petition: Support real solutions to homelessness. Oppose arrests and fines.
Punishing homeless individuals makes it even more difficult for them to secure employment and housing, further perpetuating the problem and creating a vicious cycle. Cities like Grants Pass, Oregon, have sought to ticket and arrest people for sleeping outdoors, even when they have nowhere to go. All eyes are on the Supreme Court as we await their decision here, which could lead to repressive and punitive measures being used against unhoused people nationwide.
Recent legislative efforts to address the issue include the Ending Homelessness Act, a bill to ensure universal rental assistance for all households in need, and tackling discrimination against renters. Another is the Housing Crisis Response Act, which, if enacted, would be a historic investment in affordable housing.
These are the kinds of solutions we should be seeking — meaningful legislation that helps us support the most vulnerable members of our communities. Please, join us and call for a comprehensive, compassionate approach to homelessness.
Sign the petition to Congress: Address the housing crisis in this country and protect the unhoused from cruel arrests and tickets.
- Democratic Values
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