San Joaquin County considers fines and jail for outdoor sleeping

San Joaquin County is considering a new ordinance aimed at addressing homelessness by imposing penalties for illegal camping on public property. The proposed measure, which will be voted on by the Board of Supervisors later this month, classifies violations as misdemeanors, potentially resulting in fines of up to $1,000 or imprisonment for up to six months. The ordinance specifically defines camping as the act of setting up tents or shelters, arranging bedding for sleep, or sleeping in parked vehicles. A significant aspect of the ordinance is the stipulation that individuals found sleeping for more than one hour could be penalized. This proposal comes in the wake of a recent Supreme Court decision that empowers local governments to enforce regulations against illegal camping. The ordinance also allows law enforcement officers to use their discretion in determining whether a person sleeping in a vehicle is doing so for safety reasons. The initiative reflects a growing concern over homelessness in the region and aims to create a more structured approach to managing public spaces. By establishing clear penalties, the county hopes to deter illegal camping and encourage individuals experiencing homelessness to seek alternative solutions. As the Board prepares to vote, community members and advocates for the homeless are likely to voice their opinions on the potential impacts of such measures. The outcome of this proposal could set a precedent for how local governments address homelessness and public safety moving forward.