The Santa Monica City Council has voted 4-3 to revise its anti-camping laws, banning the use of sleeping bags, blankets, and pillows for the unhoused, reinstating a provision removed in 2022 following a federal court ruling. This change aligns with a recent Supreme Court decision allowing cities to impose stricter regulations on homeless encampments. Proponents argue it will help police engage with the homeless, while critics view it as a cruel measure that increases hardship for vulnerable individuals. The amendment allows for greater discretion in law enforcement regarding what constitutes camping, potentially leading to more citations. Meanwhile, San Joaquin County is considering a similar ordinance to ban camping and restrict sleeping in cars to one hour. The San Joaquin Board of Supervisors aims to reclaim public spaces while providing shelter resources for the unhoused.