President Trump Issues Executive Order on Homelessness

Earlier today, President Trump issued an Executive Order (EO) aimed at addressing homelessness. The order – entitled Ending Crime and Disorder on America’s Streets – directs the Attorney General to challenge judicial precedent and consent decrees that restrict the ability of state and local governments to commit individuals on the street who are deemed a danger to themselves or others. It also prioritizes federal grant funding for efforts that enforce bans on open drug use, urban camping, and related public safety issues.

In addition, the EO calls for increased investment in treatment centers and other facilities for individuals with serious mental illness, while explicitly prohibiting the use of federal funds for supervised drug injection sites. Additionally, it bars homeless sex offenders from being housed in facilities with women and children. A fact sheet from the White House summarizing the EO can be accessed here.