Tell Little Rock: Don't Criminalize Homelessness

In Little Rock, Arkansas, officials have begun drawing up ordinances that would ban just about everything that seems remotely homeless — so-called "aggressive panhandling," public feedings and the sale of 40-ounce beers.

If Little Rock goes through with its draconian plans, "aggressive" panhandlers would be fined or locked up. Liquor stores would be prohibited from selling single servings of alcohol (which inconveniences plenty of housed people, as well). And churches and organizations that want to hand out food in public parks would need to pay $25 for a permit and could still only get two of those a year.

The debate so far seems to be around what time liquor stores should open and how large the bottles should be and where exactly the homeless are permitted to congregate. Even in times of stretched resources, if officials want to solve the situation rather than put a Band-Aid on it, the discussion should revolve around who's drinking and why, and why homeless people are congregating and what they need in order to stop doing that. We're guessing the usual: jobs, affordable housing, substance abuse treatment, medical care, etc. Not more chances to go to jail.

Tell Little Rock Mayor Mark Stodola to seek more comprehensive measures to solve homelessness.

Photo credit: Neubie

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