LOC News
Webinar: What Local Governments Must Do to Comply with both Grants Pass v. Johnson and HB 3115
The U.S. Supreme Court Settles the Homeless Camping Debate. Or did it?
LOC and CIS are pleased to announce a webinar that delves into the recent U.S. Supreme Court decision in Grants Pass v. Johnson. This pivotal ruling has significant implications for cities across Oregon and their ordinances regulating public property.
When: Tuesday, July 9, 9 a.m. - 10 a.m.
Location: Virtual
Cost: Free for CIS General Liability members
Register: Registration for this webinar is processed through the CIS Learning Center and will require a login to the site. Click on Upcoming Trainings on the home page to view available classes. If you're new to the learning center, here are some tips to get started: First Time Logging In and Enrolling in a Class.
On Friday, June 28, the U.S. Supreme Court released its opinion on whether the city of Grants Pass’s ordinance, which prohibits activities such as camping or parking overnight on city property or parks, violates the U.S. Constitution’s Eighth Amendment — particularly in relation to people experiencing homelessness. In a 6-3 opinion, the majority concluded that the cruel and unusual punishment clause in the Eighth Amendment does not extend to the enforcement of generally applicable laws, such as public camping ordinances.
The court held that the Grants Pass public camping ordinance does not criminalize the status of being homeless but rather prohibits specific actions, such as camping, undertaken by any persons.
Key Discussion Points:
- Understanding the Supreme Court's Opinion: Analysis of the 6-3 decision and its legal rationale.
- Implications for Local Government in Oregon: How this ruling affects city and county ordinances regulating public property, taking into account HB 3115’s continuing requirement that regulations be “reasonable” as to time, place, and manner.
- Future Legal and Policy Considerations: What this decision means for future legislation and court cases involving public property regulations and homelessness.
Speakers:
- Kirk Mylander, CIS General Counsel
- Aaron Hisel, Capitol Legal
- Jayme Pierce, League of Oregon Cities
Questions:
Contact the CIS Learning Center at 503-763-3804 or at learn@cisoregon.org.