This week, California's governor asked cities and counties to stop homeless people from setting up camps. He also gave them a plan to take down the tents on streets, in parks, and near water in many areas of the state.

When he became governor in 2019, Gavin Newsom decided to make the problem of homelessness a very important issue for his government. Before that, this problem was mainly dealt with by mayors and other local leaders. But Governor Newsom put a lot of money into changing old motels into homes and started other plans to deal with the situation.

However, he has often asked cities and counties to help. On Monday, he showed some suggested words that local governments could use to clear away temporary camps. Here's what you should know:

Can you explain what the model ordinance says?

Newsom's suggested rule says people cannot stay in one place for too long or set up camps that block paths or public areas.

What are the opinions of local governments?

Groups representing California's cities and counties disagreed with the idea that they are responsible for the condition of the streets. They say they need regular, long-term funding for lasting projects instead of funding that happens only sometimes.

Carolyn Coleman, who is in charge of the League of California Cities, said that 80% of cities have plans to handle encampments. However, she added that they need money to solve the main problems that cause homelessness, such as needing more places to live.

The California State Association of Counties said the state hasn't given as much money to help with homelessness as it claims, and that half of the money went to companies that build houses.

What do people who support homeless rights say?

Studies show that stopping homeless people from setting up camps and punishing them makes it harder for them to find stable homes and jobs, says Alex Visotzky from the National Alliance to End Homelessness.

People might lose important papers or connection with a helpful supporter, which means they have to begin again.

In Los Angeles, Jay Joshua oversees a small encampment that also serves as his residence. He contends that such encampments can offer a secure environment for their inhabitants.

How are cities in California dealing with people living in tents outside?

Big cities with Democratic mayors have started to act against homeless camps, saying they are bad for public health and safety.

In San Francisco, the new mayor, Daniel Lurie, promised to make the city's sidewalks clean. In San Jose, Mayor Matt Mahan suggested arresting people who refuse shelter three times.

Must cities and counties accept it?

Newsom cannot force cities and counties to ban encampments.

However, the plan for homeless camps came with news of $3.3 billion for places that help with mental health and addiction. This suggests he might use this money to make sure they follow the new rules.

In 2022, he stopped giving $1 billion in state money to local governments because he said their plans to reduce homelessness were not good enough.