Salem City Council rejects ‘sit-lie’ ordinance

SALEM, Ore. (AP) – The Salem City Council rejected a proposal to outlaw sitting or lying on city sidewalks during the day.
 
The council instead voted Monday to establish a task force to study homelessness in downtown.
 
The Statesman Journal reports (https://is.gd/ev9Wh3 ) members of the public expressed concern about the proposal, saying it targets the homeless. Some called the proposal unconstitutional and inhumane.
 
Portland approved a similar ordinance that was struck down by a judge in 2009. The judge said it clashed with state law.