In St. Petersburg, a court battle is underway that could lead to criminal penalties for simply being homeless. A local restaurant owner has sued the City to force the enforcement of a public sleeping ban—despite the fact that many unhoused people have nowhere else to go.

But sleeping is not a crime. It’s a basic human need.

That’s why organizations like the Southern Poverty Law Center and Progressive People’s Action are stepping in to defend the rights of our most vulnerable neighbors. They know what many in our community already understand: punishing people for sleeping in public when there are no shelter beds or safe options available is inhumane—and likely unconstitutional.

Instead of spending taxpayer dollars fighting legal battles or ramping up punitive enforcement, the City of St. Pete should invest in real, compassionate solutions. That means funding transitional and permanent housing, expanding access to mental health and substance use treatment, and supporting outreach teams who know how to build trust—not just write tickets.

We know that many downtown residents and business owners are frustrated. They deserve safe streets and thriving public spaces. But those goals will never be achieved by arresting people for being poor. We cannot police our way out of a housing crisis.

We urge Mayor Ken Welch and the St. Petersburg City Council to:

• Reject expanded enforcement of public sleeping bans that target people with no alternatives
• Prioritize funding for evidence-backed housing and harm reduction services
• Engage unhoused residents and service providers in shaping real, long-term strategies

Let’s stop criminalizing homelessness and start addressing its root causes—with compassion, dignity, and urgency.

Add your name if you believe St. Pete can do better—for everyone who calls this city home.