Homelessness: People First Housing Act of 2025.

Assembly Member DeMaio's comprehensive homelessness legislation proposes fundamental changes to California's shelter and housing assistance programs, introducing new restrictions on encampments and modifying program eligibility requirements.

The bill establishes a 500-foot buffer between homeless encampments and sensitive areas including schools, open spaces, and transit stops. It prohibits camping in public spaces when shelter beds are available within city limits. For shelter programs, the legislation mandates formal termination policies, grievance procedures, and exit planning requirements to facilitate transitions to alternative housing.

The measure replaces existing Housing First policies with a housing readiness framework that allows programs to consider factors such as sobriety, treatment completion, and service participation when evaluating applicants. State agencies must prioritize funding for shelter beds first, followed by transitional housing and permanent supportive housing. Programs must include work or volunteer opportunities and may implement drug testing and treatment requirements.

Additional provisions streamline permitting for behavioral health facilities and require city council approval for motels receiving significant homeless assistance payments. The bill also establishes a grant program for housing-related support services targeting older and dependent adults experiencing abuse or neglect, with requirements for matching funds and program evaluation.