In a 6-3 decision, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled that outdoor sleeping bans do not violate the Eighth Amendment. The decision essentially allows cities to make it illegal for unhoused people to sleep outdoors, even when shelter space is unavailable.
Dr. Terence Lester, the founder and executive director of Love Beyond Walls, said he was heartbroken when he learned of the news. Lester explained how the ruling disrupts community and how it will negatively affect those who are unhoused in the Atlanta area.
On Monday’s edition of “Closer Look with Rose Scott,” Lester further explained why he believes homelessness is a public health issue. He also offered solutions, such as a bill of rights, to combat the punishment of people experiencing homelessness.
