The Supreme Court is set to deliberate on whether prohibiting homeless individuals from sleeping outdoors when shelter space is unavailable constitutes cruel and unusual punishment.

This case holds immense significance as homelessness reaches unprecedented levels in the United States.

In states like California, courts have already deemed it unconstitutional to penalize individuals for sleeping in homeless encampments when no shelter is accessible.

While some officials argue such measures are necessary to manage encampments, many advocacy groups assert that criminalizing homelessness will exacerbate the crisis.

The Justice Department has also weighed in, advocating against punishing individuals solely for sleeping outside unless there is clear evidence of alternative options, The Hill reported.

Originating from Grants Pass, Oregon, where fines were imposed on outdoor sleeping, the case challenges the constitutionality of such measures.

The 9th Circuit Court of Appeals previously ruled against such bans, citing violations of the 8th Amendment.

This case arises amidst a 12% surge in homelessness in the US, attributed to soaring rents and diminishing pandemic assistance.

Written by B.C. Begley