How do you feel about California passing first-in-the-nation bill, that would let students live in cars?

[Cubus]

A progressive Democratic lawmaker is seeking a simple but jarring remedy of last resort for California’s college students navigating the state’s housing crisis: Let them sleep in their cars.

Assemblymember Corey Jackson, a Southern California Democrat who has a doctorate in social work, said lawmakers can build long-term solutions while offering an immediate stopgap for a “worst case scenario.” His proposal, which cleared its first committee last month, would require community colleges and the California State University system to plan for an overnight parking program for students.

Both the CSU and community college systems are opposed to Jackson’s effort, citing a lack of funding and a mandate that doesn’t address long-term housing solutions. Jackson, in an interview, argued the colleges aren’t taking a “very moral position.” He said they’ve remained opposed even after he has offered to waive liability and delay implementation until funding is available.

Source: https://www.politico.com/news/2025/04/13/ca-students-living-in-cars-00287409

[alice55]

Was that actually forbidden before? Some people in France do it because they don't have enough money or can't find a house but nobody need to pass a laws to authorize it, everybody is free to sleep in their car if they want / need to.

I'm confused why American would need a law for this.

[Cubus]

I thought its an American thing.

[Gwendoline]

Seems stupid. I don't see a reason why anyone can't sleep 12 hours every night in their own vechile as long as they aren't parked legally, dumping rubbish or going toilet outside the vechile but I don't think colleges or any organisation should be forced to provide electricity, bathroom facilities or running water to people sleeping in their cars. They should really look at why there is a housing crisis and go from there

[AviatorTom]

Dumb idea. College kids drink, and if they drink in their car, that's DUI, which will get them arrested and fined. Then again, maybe that's what the state is shooting for... more income.

Plus, does it have to be their car they sleep in, or anyone's car?

[Cubus]

Isn't it legal in USA to DUI as long as you don't drink too much?

[AviatorTom]

@Cubus If you don't drink too much BEFORE you get in the car, that's okay. But every state has rules against drinking while in the car, and most states even have rules against open bottles in the car, whether anyone is actively drinking them or not.

[seeyounexttuesday]

so... um... has... the thought occurred... to anyone... don't admit more students than you have dorm room... anyone? Does that seem simpler? more logical?

[DrPepper12]

I'm all for novel & pilot programs but this is stupid & doesn't address the problem - Prop 13 MUST be repealed but never will be. Direct democracy can be counterproductive at times.

[Agape93]

So he's letting them do what they already have to do. Why not make shit cheap enough to live on? Ffs

[exitseven]

They let homeless sleep on the streets. Why not let students sleep in their cars?

[TwoToTooTutu2]

I don't think there should have to be a law to let people sleep in their cars. Should just be the norm

[Hispanic-Cool-Guy]

Such stupid law. The focus should be on making homes affordable for people.

[Gayuglycowardv3]

I dont see an issue with that, its just preventing policing from harassing and or shooting people in their cars at night.

[Pterodon]

Nothing California does surprises me