Trump's plan for DC homeless is giving San Francisco deja vu

August 22, 2025

San Francisco has significantly reduced visible homelessness through aggressive enforcement measures that began after a 2023 Supreme Court ruling allowed cities to criminalize rough sleeping. Under former Mayor London Breed and continued by current Mayor Daniel Lurie, the city has dramatically increased arrests and citations for illegal lodging while simultaneously investing $846 million in homelessness programs for fiscal year 2024-2025. While tent encampments have decreased from 319 in July 2024 to 165 in June, overall homelessness has actually increased by 7% since 2022, with at least 8,300 people experiencing homelessness.

Who is affected

People experiencing homelessness in San Francisco and Washington DC
San Francisco residents and businesses
Visitors to San Francisco
Families experiencing homelessness who received an extension to stay in shelters
People with mental health and addiction issues living on the streets

What action is being taken

San Francisco officials are clearing tent encampments and issuing citations/arrests for illegal lodging
The city is allocating $846 million to address homelessness in fiscal year 2024-2025
Mayor Lurie is working to add 1,500 new shelter and treatment beds
San Francisco is allowing homeless families to stay in shelters for longer periods
Federal agents are clearing homeless encampments in Washington DC
Street teams are being reorganized to help people with mental health needs

Why it matters

The visible presence of homelessness has been a polarizing issue in San Francisco, affecting the city's image and quality of life
The Supreme Court ruling has enabled cities nationwide to criminalize homelessness
Despite reduced tent visibility, overall homelessness continues to rise in San Francisco
The approach represents a shift in homelessness policy that balances enforcement with services
San Francisco's strategy is influencing other cities, including Washington DC under the Trump administration
The high cost of housing in San Francisco ($846 million budget) highlights the scale of resources needed to address the issue

What's next

Mayor Lurie has vowed to add 1,500 new shelter and treatment beds in the city

Read full article from source: BBC