CA SB876

Grants persons experiencing homelessness the right to use public spaces without discrimination based on housing status, including the right to rest, eat, move freely, and practice religion in public spaces.

Prohibits criminal, civil, or administrative penalties for homeless persons engaging in permitted activities in public spaces that are open to the public, except for enforcing the Americans with Disabilities Act and most Penal Code violations.

Authorizes civil lawsuits by persons whose rights are violated, with courts able to award injunctive relief, declaratory relief, restitution, actual damages, statutory damages of $1,000 per violation, and attorney's fees and costs.

Requires all applicants for HUD's Continuum of Care Homeless Assistance Program to annually submit to the Department of Housing and Community Development their HUD application responses regarding steps taken to reduce criminalization of homelessness.

Mandates the Department of Housing and Community Development compile and report annually to the Legislature on community actions to reduce criminalization of homelessness found in submitted applications.