The American Civil Liberties Union of New Jersey has called on the Summit City Council to reconsider an ordinance that would impose penalties on unhoused individuals who sleep in public areas. ACLU-NJ Policy Counsel DaWuan Norwood issued a statement urging council members to reject the proposal, citing it as ineffective and inhumane.
Norwood emphasized that the focus should shift from punitive measures to providing stable housing and supportive resources for those in need. "Vulnerable people in need should be met with stable and safe housing and shelter options, not time in a jail cell," he stated.
The proposal by the Summit City Council would introduce fines and potential jail time for public sleeping, a stance that the ACLU-NJ views as detrimental to solving homelessness. Norwood's statement encourages the council to seek alternative solutions that emphasize care and rehabilitation.
