In a sweeping move aimed at addressing the growing homelessness crisis, Donald Trump has signed a bold executive order that would make it easier for cities and states to relocate homeless individuals from public spaces and into mental health or addiction treatment programs.
The new directive calls for aggressive action, urging the Attorney General, Pam Bondi, to roll back legal rulings and consent decrees that limit how local authorities can respond to public homelessness. According to a White House fact sheet, the order promotes expanded use of civil commitment for those deemed a danger to themselves or others due to severe mental illness or substance abuse.
“Restoring order in our cities through compassionate but firm action is the only way to truly help those on the streets and ensure public safety,” the order states. “Letting chaos reign is neither fair to everyday Americans nor to the individuals in crisis.”
The plan also redirects federal funding to cities and states that take strong stances against urban camping, open drug use, and loitering. The departments of Health and Human Services, Housing and Urban Development, and Transportation have been tasked with prioritizing grant allocations for jurisdictions that enforce such bans.
White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt said the measure reflects Trump’s mission to “Make America Safe Again” by both tackling homelessness and improving access to treatment.
“By cracking down on lawlessness and investing in recovery programs, President Trump is putting communities first while helping those battling mental illness and addiction get the support they truly need,” Leavitt stated.
The executive order was first reported by USA Today, and it marks one of Trump’s most assertive moves yet to combat homelessness through policy and law enforcement collaboration.
