I agree with both of you
by ravenium (2024-02-29 15:06:59)

In reply to: There's quite a bit of literature on this  posted by AquinasDomer

Cannot Reply Return to Political

I think you're each referring to different parts of the homeless spectrum.

There is a fairly large contingent of homeless that are couch surfing, living in cars, and try to stay out of the way so as to be left alone. We don't see these people generally, because they don't affect us directly.

However, there is a small but VERY visible contingent (mentally ill, druggies, anti social assholes) that has a very outsized effect, especially on the west coast. Housing won't work for these people - generally only enforcement and deterrence.

If you try to help with the former, you cannot conflate with the latter, because you will get used. As evidenced by Oregon Measure 110 (which was badly laid out to begin with), people will see leniency as a welcome bell for abuse.

Replies: