Florida when a new state law kicks in that bans public sleeping after nightfall. The measure, signed by Gov. Ron DeSantis in March, aims to force cities to address a growing homeless crisis impacting the entire nation.

Shakamie appeared comfortable holding court last week to discuss homelessness with a reporter and several of his friends in the Circle K parking lot off of Highway 70 near the Interstate 40, south of downtown Raleigh.

Chula Vista and National City leaders have approved new rules banning homeless encampments, enforceable regardless of shelter bed availability. On Tuesday, the Chula Vista City Council unanimously passed an ordinance prohibiting encampments on and near public property.

With Florida’s so-called “anti-camping” law going into effect on Oct. 1, the City of Fort Lauderdale is taking its own steps to not only comply with the law but to go even further to move homeless people off the streets.