San Jose Mayor Defends Plan to Arrest Homeless Refusing Shelter Amid Statewide Crackdown

San Jose Mayor Matt Mahan has proposed the "Responsibility to Shelter" plan, which would allow authorities to detain, arrest, or hospitalize homeless individuals who refuse shelter on three occasions, aiming to address public safety risks and the city's homelessness crisis. The policy comes amid California Governor Gavin Newsom's push for cities and counties to ban homeless encampments and increase funding for related efforts. Mahan stresses the need for intervention when individuals refuse shelter, citing recent violent incidents involving unhoused residents, and emphasizes making every reasonable effort to provide shelter or treatment. However, the plan faces resistance from San Jose City Council members who question its effectiveness, cite a lack of clear data, and express concerns about costs amid the city's budget deficit. Some councilmembers argue that refusals of shelter may not accurately reflect homelessness status, suggesting many find alternative accommodations. Despite protests and opposition, Mahan continues to advocate for the policy, highlighting the urgent need to address public safety and homelessness challenges in San Jose.