The California Business Properties Association said Friday the U.S. Supreme Court’s ruling that cities can enforce bans on homeless people sleeping outdoors will provide new tools and help California leaders and law enforcement address homeless encampments, in conjunction with providing housing assistance and mental health support. The ruling is seen as a necessary step to address public safety and sanitation concerns created by illegal camps on city streets and private property.

CBPA and the Pacific Legal Foundation filed a brief with the high court in Grants Pass v. Johnson, a case the court decided in favor of the Oregon city of Grants Pass. “CBPA and our members engaged in this important case because local governments and property owners alike need to be able to keep public spaces clean, sanitary, and safe for all,” said Matthew Hargrove, CBPA president & CEO.

He continued, “We praise the state and Governor for the resources that have been dedicated to addressing homelessness and mental health, including the significant contributions from Proposition 1 passed in March and programs like Project Homekey.”

This 6-3 decision announced Friday overturns a significant prior ruling by the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals and allows cities to disband public encampments.