From 2020 – 2022 six US states introduced bills that would make sleeping on public property a misdemeanor punishable by a fine of up to $5,000 and a month in jail. In 2021 Texas became the first state to pass a statewide law which banned public homeless encampments statewide and pulled state grant funds from non-compliant cities. Proponents of these laws argue that that leaving tens of thousands of Americans—often with severe mental illness or substance use problems—on the streets for decades until they can all be provided with permanent, supportive housing is not a viable or humane model. Opponents argue that the laws do not provide housing solutions and simply encourage homeless people to relocate to other states.
43% Yes |
57% No |
28% Yes |
55% No |
15% Yes, and create more social programs to provide free food, clothing, and medicine |
2% No, and make it a criminal offense |
See how support for each position on “Homeless Encampments” has changed over time for 707k America voters.
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See how importance of “Homeless Encampments” has changed over time for 707k America voters.
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Unique answers from America users whose views extended beyond the provided choices.
@8XPX7KY2yrs2Y
No, But create more social programs to provide free food, clothing, and medicine
@8XQ33R92yrs2Y
No, but create more social programs to provide free food, clothing, and medicine
@8XNRZB42yrs2Y
No, and create more social programs to provide free food, clothing, and medicine.
@8XS3GJV2yrs2Y
No, and create more social programs to provide free food, clothing, and medicine
@8XTQXPJ2yrs2Y
No, but create more social programs to provide free food, clothing, and medicine.
@94Z37B42yrs2Y
No, but create better housing and shelters to prevent encampment on public property.
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