A recent lawsuit has been filed against Grants Pass, Oregon, for allegedly violating a state law that requires cities' camping regulations to be 'objectively reasonable.' Disability Rights Oregon initiated the legal action, claiming that the city's camping rules are discriminatory and do not meet the legal standard.
Last year, a U.S. Supreme Court ruling allowed cities nationwide to enforce homeless camping bans, leading to a shift in homeless policy. Grants Pass, a small city in Oregon, became a focal point of this issue, prompting the new mayor and City Council members to implement stricter camping regulations.
Despite having limited shelter options, Grants Pass enforced ordinances prohibiting camping on city property, leaving many homeless individuals with no legal place to stay. The city designated specific areas for homeless encampments, but recently closed the larger campsite, forcing residents to move daily with their belongings.
The lawsuit alleges that the city's actions are making homelessness in Grants Pass unbearable, particularly for individuals with disabilities. The complaint highlights the challenges faced by homeless people with physical limitations, such as those using wheelchairs or canes.
One of the plaintiffs, Janine Harris, emphasized the humanity of homeless individuals and the need for city officials to recognize their rights and dignity. The lawsuit aims to block Grants Pass from enforcing its camping rules, citing violations of state law and discrimination against people with disabilities.
Homelessness remains a pressing issue nationwide, with a significant increase reported last year due to various factors, including a lack of affordable housing and natural disasters.
