Mayor proposes free fentanyl as a solution to homelessness crisis

In February 2025, Lancaster Mayor R. Rex Parris proposed a controversial plan during a city council meeting aimed at addressing the city's homelessness crisis. He suggested providing free fentanyl to the homeless population, declaring that those who refuse help, particularly individuals he refers to as 'criminals,' warrant such extreme measures. Parris asserted that fentanyl is readily available on the streets which would render the city's offer inconsequential. His comments were made during a discussion about previously proposed solutions, including the idea of confining homeless individuals to an abandoned golf course. Parris's statements drew immediate backlash and concern from community members, leading to calls for a recall election against him. The recall petition, which has gathered only a fraction of needed signatures, cites a history of questionable leadership marked by priorities that some residents feel favor personal agendas over public welfare. Critics argue that his approach not only lacks compassion for vulnerable populations but also overlooks larger systemic issues contributing to homelessness. The mayor defended his statement by claiming that a significant portion of the homeless population comprises individuals released from prison, insinuating that they are primarily responsible for local crime rates. No data was immediately provided to substantiate his claims about the crime statistics associated with homelessness. Parris emphasized the need to protect the city's families, stating that current conditions are untenable and expressing an openness to any solution, even those as extreme as his suggested 'purge.' This proposal reflects a growing frustration among local leaders regarding the persistence of homelessness in their communities, as well as the ongoing debates about the best methods to address drug addiction among the homeless. Advocates for homeless rights argue for more humane solutions such as increased mental health and addiction services, rather than punitive measures that could exacerbate existing problems. Parris's comments serve as a stark reminder of the polarization surrounding discussions of homelessness in California and the ongoing complexities that come with addressing this multifaceted issue.