Des Moines Approves Controversial Homeless Ordinance

The Des Moines City Council has preliminarily approved a controversial ordinance to address homelessness, allowing the city to clear campsites 24 hours after posting notice and impose $50 fines, which can be substituted with community service. The proposal has sparked heated debates, with opponents labeling it as cruel and ineffective, while supporters argue it is necessary for public safety and order. This move aligns with a recent U.S. Supreme Court ruling permitting cities to enforce camping bans even without available shelter space. Critics, including the ACLU of Iowa, argue that the ordinance may violate constitutional rights and fails to provide real solutions to homelessness. The council must approve the ordinance in two more meetings for it to take effect. Other cities, like Rochester, have already implemented similar bans, resulting in reduced public camping without arrests or fines so far.