SPOKANE, Wash. — The Washington State Supreme Court said the city of Spokane does not have the authority to enforce the homeless camping ban passed by voters in 2023.
In November 2023, two-thirds of Spokane voters voted to pass Proposition 1, which wanted to restrict homeless encampments near schools, playgrounds, parks and other areas where children gather.
Local homeless outreach group Jewels Helping Hands and former City Council president Ben Stuckart filed a lawsuit around that time in the State Supreme Court against the proposal.
On Thursday, the court ruled that Proposition 1 is not valid and outside the scope of the local initiative process.
“The Washington State Supreme Court’s decision regarding Proposition 1 offers important clarity on the legal boundaries of local initiative powers and reinforces the distinction between legislative and administrative actions,” Mayor Lisa Brown said in a statement on the ruling. “The Supreme Court’s decision is a win for our community and a recognition of the important intergovernmental collaboration happening in Spokane,” said Stuckart, the executive director of the Spokane Low Income Housing Coalition. “Every day that collaboration is providing critical support for people on their journey from homelessness to housing.”
Stuckart added in a statement on the ruling he is confident the city will abide by the court ruling. Mayor Brown said the city’s unlawful camping ordinance, which predates Proposition 1, will remain in effect and be enforced by the Spokane Police Department.
“Our legal team is currently reviewing the Court’s opinion in detail, and we will be working together to thoughtfully chart a path forward that reflects the Court’s guidance, as well as the best interests of our community,” Mayor Brown said.
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