Florida Homeless Law: New Ban on Camping in Public Spaces Takes Effect

A new Florida homeless law individuals from sleeping outdoors came into effect on Tuesday. House Bill 1365 bans camping on streets, sidewalks, and in parks. Under the law, local governments are mandated to provide temporary housing for homeless individuals, with stipulations that prohibit drug use and offer access to substance abuse and mental health treatment.

Governor Ron DeSantis, a Republican, stated that the law strikes “absolutely the right balance,” emphasizing the importance of prioritizing public safety. The law also allows for lawsuits against counties that fail to prevent public sleeping, although there is a three-month grace period before legal actions can begin.

The ban on public sleeping took immediate effect, while Florida estimates that approximately 31,000 people are experiencing homelessness in the state. Mildred Forti, a homeless resident in Miami, expressed frustration, saying, “To be camping out in public as we are because we can’t find a place to live… This is another stupid law. We will start moving again and looking for a new place.”

Ron Book, chairman of the Miami-Dade Homeless Trust, mentioned ongoing efforts to create more shelter and housing options. He revealed plans for a navigation center, which would serve as a lower-tier alternative to traditional shelters, and hopes to have it operational by the end of the year. Additionally, Book’s organization aims to transition over 140 people into rental units at the La Quinta Hotel by December 31, 2024, as part of a project to convert the hotel into housing for low-income seniors.

Sheriff Gregory Tony of Broward County reiterated on social media that “Homelessness is not a crime.” The new law permits local governments to designate county-owned land for temporary sleeping arrangements, provided the area is maintained clean and crime-free and offers access to showers and mental health services.

To receive approval for such camps, counties must demonstrate a lack of available beds in local shelters and prove that the camp would not negatively impact property values or the safety of surrounding neighborhoods.