U.S. Supreme Court rulings June 28, 2024

The Supreme Court made important decisions today that will affect federal regulations, obstruction laws, and homelessness policies. These rulings mean Congress needs to act to clear up any confusion and make sure the laws work as intended.

First, the Court overturned the Chevron doctrine, which had allowed federal agencies a lot of power to make regulations. Now, courts must decide if agencies are acting within their legal limits. This change aims to stop unelected officials from having too much control over important areas like the environment, healthcare, and workplace safety. As a member of Congress I will work to make laws clearer so agencies know exactly what they can and cannot do.

Second, the Court ruled in favor of some January 6 rioters, limiting how an obstruction law can be used against them. Justice Barrett stressed that understanding Congress's original intent is crucial. In response, while working in the U.S. In The House of Representatives, I will review and clarify these laws to ensure they are used correctly in future cases.

Another major decision allows cities to ban homeless people from sleeping outdoors, overturning a lower court’s ruling that said such bans were cruel if no shelter was available. This decision is significant given the rising homelessness crisis. Some say these bans criminalize sleeping, while others believe they help manage dangerous encampments.

To tackle the homelessness crisis, a working Congress can take several steps. We can allocate more funding for affordable housing, shelters, and services for homeless people. Investing in mental health care, addiction treatment, and job training to address root causes of homelessness. Promoting the "Housing First" model, which provides stable housing without preconditions, has been effective in reducing chronic homelessness. Preventive measures like rent assistance and eviction prevention can help keep people from becoming homeless.

By taking these steps, working in Congress, I will ensure laws are clear and fair, support vulnerable populations, and maintain public trust in the legal system.