“[Criminalizing homeless people] isn’t only inhumane and potentially unconstitutional, but it’s also senseless and ineffective.”

—Maria Foscarinis, Christian Science Monitor,
December 9, 1999

“Experience tells us strong enforcement against quality-oflife crimes makes [cities] safer in every way.”

—Richard Riordan,

Los Angeles Times, January 29, 1997

In Orlando, Florida, being homeless is becoming increasing difficult. Since February 1997, anyone wishing to panhandle on the streets must wear a laminated panhandling permit issued by the police department. Homeless people who hold permits are restricted from panhandling in certain areas—including bus depots, train stations, public parks, and sports arenas—and must follow a lengthy set of guidelines. They cannot, as commentator Eric Brosch writes,

approach people at ATMs or in vehicles, or come within three feet of the person solicited. They can’t use obscenities, follow people, or work in pairs. Panhandlers...