County Statement on the U.S. Supreme Court Decision on Grants Pass v. Johnson

Author: Homeless Services Division
Date: 7/1/2024 12:30 PM

The County of San Luis Obispo remains committed to addressing homelessness through services and resources as County Counsel reviews the new ruling.

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San Luis Obispo, CA—On Friday, June 28, 2024, the United States Supreme Court issued its decision in Grants Pass v. Johnson, a case that addressed whether local agencies may prohibit overnight and vehicular camping in public spaces. The Court’s decision overturned previous rulings made by lower courts for both Grants Pass v. Johnson and Martin v. Boise and held that “enforcement of generally applicable laws regulating camping, sleeping, and similar activities does not violate the Eight Amendment’s prohibition against ‘cruel and unusual punishments.’”

The County Counsel’s Office is currently reviewing the ruling to gain a full understanding of its impacts and how it may affect current and future County ordinances. The County’s existing prohibitions of unpermitted overnight camping in certain coastal communities and County parks are not tied to anyone’s housing status. The application and enforceability of these ordinances were not impacted by the Supreme Court's decision.
 
The County of San Luis Obispo remains committed to addressing homelessness by connecting people with the services, programs, and resources they need to find and maintain stable housing. As stated in the San Luis Obispo Countywide Plan to Address Homelessness, the County aims to provide compassionate assistance to those experiencing homelessness while improving how public spaces are shared by all community members.