Explain It to Me

Is homelessness a crime?

Apr 17, 2024

Exploring the legal battles around homelessness and constitutional rights, the escalating homeless crisis, and the complexities of homelessness in the US. Addressing the need for more housing options and shelters instead of punitive measures, navigating legal, social, and practical perspectives on homelessness, and discussing sustainable forest management.

32:39

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Quick takeaways

Cities are seeking more power to address homeless encampments legally, raising constitutional concerns, particularly on fines and jail penalties for sleeping outside.

The homelessness crisis in the US is exacerbated by the lack of affordable housing, requiring comprehensive solutions beyond temporary measures.

Deep dives

The Importance of Sustainable Forest Management

Working forests play a crucial role in ensuring a steady supply of wood while protecting vast acres of forest land. By planting more trees than they harvest, these forests have been sustainably managed for decades.

Introduction

2min

Exploring the Legal Battles Around Homelessness and Constitutional Rights

3min

The Escalating Homeless Crisis and Call for Climate Support

4min

Understanding the Complexities of Homelessness

8min

Addressing Homelessness and Court Rulings

4min

Navigating Homelessness: Legal, Social, and Practical Perspectives

13min

Exploring Expert Reporting on a Supreme Court Case and Sustainable Forest Management

2min

America is in the midst of a homelessness crisis. With little affordable housing and limited space at shelters, many people are instead sleeping outside. But as tent encampments become more common, particularly on the West Coast where the housing crisis is most acute, the pressure on local governments to address the problem has skyrocketed. Now, the Supreme Court has decided to weigh in. The issue at the center of it is whether cities can fine or jail unhoused people for sleeping outside. Vox senior policy reporter Rachel Cohen (X, Instagram) explains the case and the stakes.

The Supreme Court will decide what cities can do about tent encampments

Supreme Court Amicus Brief No. 23-175

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Credits:

Jonquilyn Hill, host

Sofi LaLonde, producer

Cristian Ayala, engineer

A.M. Hall, editorial director of talk podcasts

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