Orlando City Council unanimously approved the first reading of a proposed update to the Code of Ordinances that would allow police officers to remove individuals obstructing vehicular or pedestrian traffic flow.
The updates to Sec. 43.06. – Disorderly Conduct of the City Code will allow police officers to fine or imprison any person deemed guilty of breaking the code, which also includes simply blocking the sidewalk or road, threats of violence, or exchanging “fighting words,” someone who forces their company upon any other person, frequenting public places with the intent to obtain money from other persons, or acting in a “tumultuous manner” toward another.
While it’s not illegal to be homeless in America, laws like this certainly limit where you can assemble if you are experiencing homelessness in Orlando. Orlando Police are saying the changes are the results of countless complaints from downtown businesses and visitors blocking the right of way and that it’s “important for the streets and sidewalks to stay clean and safe to allow everyone to travel freely.”
The ordinance will need to be read a second time before being put into action.
