Supreme Court Ruling on Homelessness Criminalization

Welcome to Under the Dome, your update from Empower Missouri about what is happening in Jefferson City with a particular focus on our anti-poverty agenda. Our Advocacy Director, Sarah Owsley, is joined by affordable housing policy managers Misha Smith and Vee Sanchez to discuss a recent Supreme Court decision impacting homelessness.

The episode delves into the Supreme Court case Johnson versus Grants Pass, where the court ruled that cities can criminalize homelessness. This decision has raised significant concerns about the treatment of homeless individuals and the broader implications for public policy and legal interpretations of the Eighth Amendment.

The discussion explores the current state of homelessness in Missouri, the lack of emergency shelters, and the barriers created by criminalizing homelessness. The episode highlights the importance of recognizing the dignity and worth of all individuals and emphasizes evidence-based solutions like permanent supportive housing to address homelessness effectively.