What To Know About Trump's Executive Order On Homelessness

The Trump administration issued an executive order aiming to address homelessness by reinstating facilities for those with mental illness and addiction. The order prioritizes funding for cities that discourage open drug use and street camping, pushing for civil commitment to long-term institutional settings. Cabinet heads are directed to reverse policies hindering the commitment of incapacitated or addicted individuals to appropriate facilities. The order also aims to restore public order, redirecting funds to treatment facilities and ensuring evidence-based substance use programs. Critics argue the order infringes on basic rights and hinders homelessness solutions by prioritizing policing and institutionalization. Concerns exist about funding cuts for existing programs and the order's failure to address housing costs. The historical context of deinstitutionalization highlights past issues of overcrowding, abuse, and insufficient community support. Lack of community services led to homelessness and transinstitutionalization, with many mentally ill individuals entering the criminal justice system. The Supreme Court has ruled cities can penalize homeless individuals for sleeping outside if shelter is unavailable.