National legal expert lays out challenges in addressing Nashville’s homeless dilemma
“Bauman says these rights directly impact the way cities can approach people struggling with homelessness. ‘To the extent that people are facing penalties for living outside when they lack indoor options could be a violation of the eighth amendment’s cruel and unusual punishment clause,’ Bauman said. ‘In addition to people being moved from their outdoor homes, their tents or other belongings are taken; that implicates property rights that are protected under the Fourth Amendment.’
‘Not responsive to complaints about visible homelessness, instead be responsive to addressing the causes of homelessness and providing people safe, stable places where they can be until they’re able to be permanently housed,’ Bauman said.”