This weekend, the city of Portland is resuming enforcement of its local laws governing when, where, and how homeless Portlanders can live in public spaces. Mayor Keith Wilson announced that enforcement would begin November 1, saying he wants people found in violation to be referred to resources like shelters or substance use programs.

That’s the same day the federal food assistance program SNAP expires for millions of low-income Americans, and homeless Portlanders will now also be at risk of fines and jail time if they decline a “reasonable alternate shelter” when offered. It’s part of Wilson’s efforts to deliver on his lofty campaign promise to end unsheltered homelessness in the city by December 1.

While Wilson continues working toward his goal to add 1,500 beds by the end of the year,

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