The governor of California asked cities and counties in the state to stop homeless people from setting up tents this week. He even gave them a plan to remove the tents from streets, parks, and rivers in many parts of the state.

Governor Gavin Newsom, a Democrat, focused on homelessness when he became governor in 2019. Before that, it was mainly a problem for city leaders, but Newsom used money to change old hotels into homes and started other plans to deal with the issue.

However, he has often asked cities and counties to help, and on Monday, he showed a suggestion for rules that local governments can use to clear away these camps. Here is some information:

What does the model ordinance say?

Newsom's suggested rule prevents people from camping in the same place for a long time and stopping others from using pavements and public areas. It also says that cities and regions should give a warning and try hard to find and offer shelter before removing a camp.

What is the opinion of the local authorities?

Groups representing California's cities and counties said they are not responsible for the condition of the streets. They say they need regular, long-term funding for lasting projects instead of occasional, one-time money.

Carolyn Coleman, the head of the League of California Cities, said that 80% of cities have plans for dealing with homeless camps. But, she said, they need money to fix the main reasons people are homeless, like not having enough cheap houses.

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

What perspectives are offered by those who advocate for the homeless?

Studies show that stopping people from camping in public places and other strict rules make it harder for them to find a home and a job, says Alex Visotzky from the National Alliance to End Homelessness.

People might lose important papers or the contact information for someone who helps them, meaning they have to begin again.

In Los Angeles, Jay Joshua resides in and oversees a small encampment, asserting that such settlements can offer a secure environment for their inhabitants.

How are cities in California dealing with homeless camps?

Big cities with Democratic mayors have started to deal with tent camps more strictly, saying they are bad for public health and safety.

In San Francisco, the new mayor, Daniel Lurie, said he would make the city's sidewalks better. In San Jose, Mayor Matt Mahan suggested arresting people who refuse housing help three times.

Is its adoption mandatory for municipalities and counties?

Newsom cannot force cities and counties to ban tent camps.

However, the suggested law about camps came with news of $3.3 billion for places that help people with mental health and drug problems, which suggests he might give state money only if they follow the law.

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.