Amsterdam Mayor Femke Halsema is proposing to remove the ban on sleeping outdoors from the city’s general local ordinance. She argues that fines for this infraction are ineffective, as those experiencing homelessness are unable to pay them, and the practice does not reduce public disturbance. Halsema believes a more effective approach is to direct individuals sleeping outdoors towards available care and support services. The current ban has proven largely unenforceable and counterproductive, according to the mayor’s reasoning. This policy shift reflects a move away from penalizing homelessness and towards a more compassionate, care-focused strategy. The proposal aims to address the root causes of homelessness rather than simply punishing its visible manifestations. The change is expected to be debated and voted on by the city council.