ORLANDO, Fla. — The Orlando City Council has adopted an ordinance to address people lying on sidewalks or blocking them on Monday. It deems blocking sidewalks or public streets to be disorderly conduct.

The ordinance, which passed a 6-1 final vote, is an amendment to city code, giving police power to charge any individuals who block the right of way and refuse to clear the area after being asked by law enforcement with disorderly conduct.

City leaders said the measure is part of an effort to address safety in downtown Orlando. Council members backed the ordinance in its first vote at the final city council meeting in December 2023.

During public comment more than 20 people spoke in opposition of the ordinance, raising concerns it disproportionately affects people experiencing homelessness, who often sleep on the sidewalks in downtown with no other place to go when shelters are full.

Martha Are, the CEO of the Homeless Services Network of Central Florida, asked the council to take measures to make sure the ordinance does not negatively affect unhoused people.

“The ordinance on the books will outlast the intent of the council that passes it," said Are. "We ask that the city review the ordinance with a careful lens and explore ways to ensure protection from unintended consequences, including risks to people who have increasingly limited options.”

Mayor Buddy Dyer says the intention of the ordinance is not meant to go after people experiencing homelessness.

The ordinance would require anyone found guilty of disorderly conduct to pay a fine not exceeding $500 and face up to 60 days in jail.