A new Florida law with a major impact on unhoused people -- and their communities -- takes effect today (Tuesday, Oct. 1). Tallahassee’s emergency homeless shelter, the Kearney Center, is staffing up. The new law prevents local governments from allowing public camping or sleeping on public property.

Nearly three dozen new state laws will take effect Oct. 1, including a contentious measure that will limit where homeless people can sleep.

Sleeping in public places is now illegal across Florida. A new state law targeting residents experiencing homelessness takes effect Tuesday. Why it matters: Supporters say public camping creates safety and quality of life issues,