Newsom unveils aggressive plan to clear homeless encampments across California: 'No more excuses'
Share and Follow

California Gov. Gavin Newsom released details about his multibillion-dollar plan to tackle the homeless crisis in the Golden State and is pushing cities and counties to take “immediate action.” 

On Monday, Newsom shared a model ordinance for cities and counties to “immediately address dangerous and unhealthy encampments and connect people experiencing homelessness with shelter and services.”

“There’s nothing compassionate about letting people die on the streets,” Newsom said in a news release.

A homeless man in a clear plastic poncho stands next to a shopping cart

A homeless encampment on the sidewalk of Hollywood Boulevard in Los Angeles on May 9, 2024. (Toby Canham for Fox News Digital)

Newsom had encouraged the Supreme Court to take up the case, claiming court decisions preventing the government from punishing vagrants occupying public spaces had created an “unsurmountable roadblock” to addressing the crisis.

In addition to cleaning up homeless encampments, Newsom’s office also announced $3.3 billion in grant funding to create over 5,000 residential treatment beds and more than 21,800 outpatient treatment slots for behavioral healthcare services.

“Californians demanded swift action to address our state’s behavioral health crisis when they voted for Prop 1 in March 2024,” Newsom’s office said.

“Today, we’re delivering our biggest win yet. These launch-ready projects will build and expand residential beds and treatment slots for those who need help. Whether it’s crisis stabilization, inpatient services, or long-term treatment, we’re ensuring that individuals can access the right care at the right time,” the statement continued.

When fully awarded, Newsom’s office said funding from Proposition 1 bonds is estimated to create 6,800 residential treatment beds and 26,700 outpatient treatment slots for behavioral health and will build on other major behavioral health initiatives in California.

“Today marks a critical milestone in our commitment to transforming California’s behavioral health system,” said Kim Johnson, secretary of the California Health and Human Services Agency. “Through these awards, we are investing in bold, community-driven solutions that expand access to care, promote equity, and meet people where they are. These projects are a reflection of our values and vision for a healthier, more compassionate California.”

Newsom’s office also said the Department of Housing and Community Development will oversee up to $2 billion in Proposition 1 funds to build permanent supportive housing for veterans and others who are homeless or at risk of homelessness and have mental health or substance-use disorder challenges.

“This is a generational investment in California’s behavioral health future. We are not just building facilities. We are building hope, dignity, and pathways to healing for thousands of Californians,” said Michelle Baass, director of the state Department of Health Care Services, in a statement.

Fox News Digital reached out to Newsom’s office for comment but did not immediately receive a response.

Stepheny Price is a writer for Fox News Digital and Fox Business. She covers topics including missing persons, homicides, national crime cases, illegal immigration, and more. Story tips and ideas can be sent to stepheny.price@fox.com

Share and Follow
You May Also Like
Woman gets prison for ‘widespread, brazen’ theft from kids program

Woman Sentenced to Prison for Bold Theft from Children’s Program

In Grand Rapids, Michigan, a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting at-risk preschool…
Israeli hostage details how he was abused by torturers

Israeli Hostage Reveals Harrowing Abuse by Captors: A Detailed Account of Torture

An Israeli man who was recently released after being held captive in…
Melodee Buzzard's mom switched license plates on trip: Officials

Key Insights into the Melodee Buzzard Disappearance Case

The search intensifies for Melodee Buzzard, a 9-year-old from California, who vanished…
Louisville UPS plane crash caught on CCTV footage

CCTV Captures Dramatic UPS Plane Crash in Louisville

Fresh perspectives on the UPS wide-body cargo plane crash in Kentucky have…
Fury erupts after accused teen sex predator dodges prison, families swarm courthouse demanding judge’s head

Outrage Erupts: Accused Teen Predator Escapes Prison Sentence, Families Demand Justice

In Oklahoma, public outrage is growing after a teenager involved in multiple…
Top Twitch streamer files defamation lawsuit against fellow gamers

Top Twitch Streamer Takes Legal Action: Defamation Lawsuit Shakes Gaming Community

AUSTIN, Texas – A legal drama is unfolding in the world of…
Healthcare system apologizes after over 500 living patients told they were dead via mail: 'Pretty upsetting'

Shocking Healthcare Blunder: Over 500 Living Patients Mistakenly Declared Dead – System’s Major Apology

Maine’s leading healthcare network has issued an apology after mistakenly sending letters…
Target's Thanksgiving meal deal drops below $20

Score a Thanksgiving Feast for Under $20 with Target’s New Meal Deal!

Thanksgiving is set to be more affordable this year, thanks to Target’s…