Policy potential
Description
This thesis studies the ways that California is attempting to mitigate homelessness through implementation of public policy solutions. It is difficult to understand on face value why one of the wealthiest states in the nation also has some of the highest rates of homelessness. Thus, this work was borne out of a desire to better understand the relationship between homelessness and public policy and what solutions may be possible to mitigate homelessness through policy in the future. Chapter 1 and 2 introduce the topic of homelessness and provide a review of relevant literature regarding homelessness as a general issue, the physical and mental health implications of homelessness, the criminalization of homelessness, how public policy addresses homelessness, and homelessness in California. Chapter 3 discusses the research design and two research questions for the paper which broadly question what kinds of solutions have been effective in mitigating homelessness and what political and policy changes are necessary to increase affordable housing in California in the future. Chapter 4 and 5 provide an in-depth analysis of the results of the Research Questions and attempt to provide answers to the questions above through data collection and interviews. Ultimately, public policy relating to homelessness requires a Housing First approach in which housing is seen as the first priority in any mitigation strategy. The thesis adds to the study of public policy in the United States relating to marginalized populations, and prompts further inquiries into how the California might continue to reform its homeless mitigation strategies.