Newark's Safety Committee is proposing legislation to City Council that criminalizes camping on public property. This policy directly threatens the homeless population of our city, those who may have to resort to camping due to lack of options during trying times, with fines, jail time, and a criminal record.

According to a report by the National Coalition for the Homeless, laws like this contribute to the criminalization of homelessness, punishing individuals for their circumstances rather than addressing systemic causes (National Coalition for the Homeless, 2019).

Moreover, the U.S. Interagency Council on Homelessness states that ringing homeless individuals into the criminal justice system is costly and offers no path to permanent housing. (USICH, 2012).  Data from the Interagency Council shows that homelessness has increased 30% from 2020 to 2023. With the increasing homelessness, how is criminalization a solution? 

For our city to prosper, more compassionate and comprehensive policies are needed. Sign this petition to oppose the Newark City Council's proposal to criminalize camping on public property. Let's stand for justice and dignity for all of Newark's residents.

Reading of Legislation to City Council: October 7th

Voting on Legislation by City Council: October 21st