In a move that screams “I have absolutely no clue how to solve systemic poverty,” San Jose Mayor Matt Mahan is pushing a controversial plan that would essentially criminalize homelessness. 🙄

His “responsibility to shelter” proposal sounds more like a punishment than a solution, suggesting that authorities could arrest homeless individuals who refuse shelter three times within 18 months. Because nothing says “compassionate governance” like threatening vulnerable populations with jail time, right?

The “Solution” That Isn’t

Mahan claims his goal is to “get everyone indoors, into shelter or treatment,” but his approach feels more like a performative Band-Aid on a gaping wound of economic inequality. Local city council members seem skeptical too, worried about the massive resource drain such an enforcement strategy would create.

Newsom’s Complicated Backdrop

Governor Gavin Newsom’s recent statewide model adds another layer of complexity. While his plan calls for prohibiting camping in public spaces and requires “reasonable efforts” to offer shelter, Mahan’s interpretation feels like a heavy-handed twist on harm reduction.

The Real Issue

Let’s be real: arresting people experiencing homelessness doesn’t solve poverty, mental health challenges, or housing affordability. It just moves the problem around and criminalizes survival. San Jose, we can do better than this.