Mayor Bronson Statement on U.S. Supreme Court Agreeing to Hear Homelessness Case

Mayor's Office

1/16/2024

Anchorage, AK — Mayor Bronson issued the following statement today regarding the U.S. Supreme Court's decision to hear the Amicus Brief case, which the Municipality, alo​ng with 15 other cities, signed in September 2023. The International Municipal Lawyers Association's amicus brief supports a petition urging the Court to review the case of City of Grants Pass v. Johnson. The brief emphasizes the need for the Court to clarify that state and local governments have the authority to take reasonable actions to address their local homelessness crises.

“I'm pleased that the U.S. Supreme Court will review this case on how western cities can address homelessness," said Mayor Bronson. “The City of Grants Pass v. Johnson decision has limited our ability to use compassionate approaches, affecting our efforts to keep streets safe. We hope the Supreme Court provides clarity on managing homelessness without constant legal threats. This is a crucial opportunity to strike a balance and address our community's challenges effectively."

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​Media Contact
Veronica Hoxie, Communications Director, Mayor's Office,
Veronica.Hoxie@anchorageak.gov, 907-615-1568