Controversial ordinances drew Burien into study on criminalizing the homeless

A Seattle University study criticized Burien's ordinances 606 and 621, stating they punish behaviors essential for survival among the homeless population. The laws permit police to issue trespass warnings for activities deemed disruptive, which can lead to bans from public areas without formal charges. Burien's City Manager acknowledged the report but noted that its authors did not consult city staff before releasing their findings. The public's immediate reaction was overwhelmingly negative, with local leaders and the ACLU urging repeal, citing constitutional concerns. Despite some revisions, including the repeal of a section on body odor, the city retained most of the ordinances, raising alarms about their impact on vulnerable individuals.

The study emphasizes that the laws could criminalize necessary survival actions like camping or using public restrooms. Penalties range from fines to potential jail time, depending on the enforcement discretion of police officers. This situation has drawn national attention to Burien, highlighting the ongoing debate over homelessness and public policy.