As Homelessness Law in Florida Goes Into Effect, Cities Like Orlando Struggle to Comply

Back in March, Florida governor Ron DeSantis signed a law banning homeless people from sleeping in public spaces, instead seeking to move them to shelters or government encampments if the former reach full capacity. These encampments or shelters must have restrooms, running water, security, and access to mental health and drug rehab services.

While communities across the state rushed to find solutions to comply with the imminent legislation, the bill generated intense debates among supporters, who argue that public camping poses safety and quality-of-life issues and critics who contend that the law criminalizes homelessness without addressing the underlying need for housing solutions.

The law, known as HB1365, went into effect on Tuesday, yet municipalities across Central Florida haven't made much progress establishing these sites, as Central Florida Public Media reports. In Orlando, for example public opposition to hosting these resources in neighborhoods has been a significant obstacle. Even though Orange County leaders recently approved $10 million to address homelessness, they have yet to determine how the funds will be used.

Municipalities who don't comply can't be sued until Jan. 1, which has led some jurisdictions to view the three-month window as an opportunity to evaluate potential legal challenges. Martha Are, CEO of the Homeless Services Network of Central Florida, told the Florida outlet that many municipalities are taking a "wait-and-see" approach:

"We've heard some jurisdictions express that they plan to wait and see what happens with the first lawsuit to see how the court rules on something like that. Some are really looking at a cost benefit analysis. You know, do they rush something to try and meet a deadline, or do they take the time to create a better solution?" Are said.

Enforcement of the law has led to concerns over increased arrests. Ron Book, chairman of the Miami-Dade County Homeless Trust, acknowledged to Axios that arrests are likely for individuals who refuse shelter placements, though Miami Police have stated their officers will prioritize connecting unsheltered individuals to services.

However, critics like Dr. Armen Henderson of Dade County Street Response, argue that rising rents and limited affordable housing will only increase homelessness, leaving more people vulnerable to arrest under the new law:

"What happens if it's you tomorrow? Are you OK with getting arrested because you can't afford rent and you find yourself unsheltered?"