Known for beaches, attractions, and a high cost of living, California is also home to a significant homeless population. With the homeless population increasing annually, state and local governments are taking measures to address the crisis and its corresponding public safety issues. These measures have ranged from increasing affordable permanent housing for people exiting incarceration to banning encampments and closing down the sale of bike parts.

Before addressing new legislation, we must understand the current circumstances of California’s homeless population. The homeless population, which consists of families and individuals, is mainly composed of formerly incarcerated people and people with mental health issues. A lack of affordable housing contributes heavily to the increase in this population, with the state unable to support all the people who require it. 

California’s homeless population has been on the radar of state and local lawmakers for years, as shown in Anaheim and Orange County. Anaheim’s 2020-2021 factsheet explains how the city aims to reduce homelessness by partnering with the Salvation Army, City Net, shelter beds, and rehabilitation centers. As for Orange County, a 2024 usbank.com article highlighted how the county transformed an Econo Lodge motel into an affordable housing unit with over 60 studio apartments. Through these instances, Anaheim and Orange County made efforts to increase housing options and support their homeless populations.

However, recent ordinances demonstrate Anaheim’s more heavy-handed approach to its homeless population. The city has taken a firm stance on public safety by targeting public encampments and bicycle “chop shops” selling bicycle parts. These encampments and “chop shops” are some of the only ways homeless people can live, making the stance seem harsh and contrasting Anaheim’s previous efforts.

Despite Anaheim’s and Orange County’s efforts, harsh and otherwise, the homeless population continues to grow. As laws targeting homelessness and the homeless population grow stringent, we must evaluate the effectiveness of legislation in handling homelessness. Ultimately, we must recognize the value of compassion in solving problems.

Works Cited

“Anaheim Moves Forward on Toughening Laws Affecting Homeless People.” Los Angeles Times, 10 Oct. 2024, www.latimes.com/california/story/2024-10-10/anaheim-moves-forward-on-toughening-laws-affecting-homeless-people. Accessed 04 Nov. 2024.

“Former Orange County Econo Lodge Transformed into Affordable Housing.” Consumer Banking, 31 Oct. 2024, www.usbank.com/about-us-bank/company-blog/article-library/former-orange-county-econo-lodge-transformed-into-affordable-housing.html. Accessed 04 Nov. 2024.

Maryxjimenez. “California Launches New Program to Improve Public Safety by Reducing Homelessness and Recidivism.” News Releases, 1 Nov. 2024, www.cdcr.ca.gov/news/2024/10/31/california-launches-new-program-to-improve-program-to-improve-public-safety-by-reducing-homelessness-and-recidivism/. Accessed 04 Nov. 2024.

Noah Biesiada, Hosam Elattar. “Orange County Homeless Population Continues Growing.” Voice of OC, 8 May 2024, voiceofoc.org/2024/05/orange-county-homeless-population-continues-growing/. Accessed 04 Nov. 2024.

www.anaheim.net/DocumentCenter/View/26859/Addressing-homelessness-fact-sheet-fall-2020. Accessed 04 Nov. 2024.