No Sit and Lie Laws!

San Francisco had a Sit and Lie law in the late 1960's through the 70's, but was ultimately struck down because it was found to be unconstitutional. Like most laws it got abused and the police started using the law to target the gay community.

Mayor Gavin Newsom and Michela Alioto-Pier proposed the legislation in response to complaints from residents and local business', about people "sitting on the sidewalk." If it passes it will in essence criminalize the act of sitting on the sidewalk. The new proposed Sit/Lie law would not include, plazas, public parks and benches. The law will not apply to disabled folks in wheel chairs or to people who attend fairs or festivals. The law would require police to first issue a warning, but subsequent offense's could result in a fine of no less than $50 and no more than $500, or JAIL time.