Seattle Council Approves Controversial Safety Measures

The Seattle City Council has approved two new public safety measures, termed Stay Out of Drug Area (SODA) and Stay Out of Area of Prostitution (SOAP), aimed at addressing the city's rising street disorder. These measures allow judges to ban individuals accused or convicted of specific drug- or prostitution-related offenses from designated zones, with potential re-arrest for violations. While proponents argue these measures will enhance neighborhood safety and disrupt illicit markets, critics warn they could marginalize vulnerable populations without significantly improving public safety. Mayor Bruce Harrell is expected to sign the bills into law, enabling Seattle Municipal Court judges to enforce these exclusions. However, enforcement remains a concern due to understaffed police prioritizing 911 responses over proactive checks. The legislation reflects a broader shift towards a more aggressive stance on vice crimes in Seattle.