SAN FRANCISCO (AP) — This week, California's governor asked cities and counties in the state to stop homeless people from making camps. He even gave them example laws to help remove the tents from streets, parks, and rivers in many parts of the state.

Governor Gavin Newsom, a Democrat, focused strongly on homelessness from the start of his time in office in 2019. Before that, it was mainly a problem for city leaders, but Newsom invested heavily in turning old motels into homes and started other projects to deal with the situation.

However, he has often asked cities and areas to help. On Monday, he showed some ideas for words that local councils can use to remove homeless camps. Here's what you should know:

Could you elaborate on the provisions outlined in the model ordinance?

Newsom's plan stops people from staying too long in one place or setting up camps that block public areas like sidewalks. Before removing a camp, it requires cities and counties to warn people and try hard to find and offer them shelter.

What are the opinions of local authorities?

Groups representing California's cities and counties did not agree that they are responsible for the condition of the streets. They say they need regular, long-term money for projects that will last, not money that is only given sometimes.

Carolyn Coleman, who is in charge of the League of California Cities, said that 80% of cities have plans to handle homeless camps. But she also said they need money to solve the main reasons people are homeless, like not having enough homes.

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

What are the perspectives of those advocating for the homeless?

Studies show that rules against setting up camps and other punishments make it harder for people to find a steady home and job, says Alex Visotzky from the National Alliance to End Homelessness.

People might lose important documents or lose touch with a reliable case manager, making them start everything again.

In Los Angeles, Jay Joshua oversees a small encampment where he also resides. He posits that such encampments can serve as secure havens for their inhabitants.

How are cities in California dealing with homeless camps?

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

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

Do cities and regions have to accept it?

Newsom cannot force cities and counties to ban homeless camps.

But the suggested law about homeless camps was announced along with $3.3 billion in money for places that help people with mental health and drug problems. This suggests he might only give state money if they follow the 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.