Good editorial in the Toronto Star today about a proposal to ban panhandling in Toronto. It calls the proposal “ill-conceived…on several fronts.” Which it is, really.
Personally, I don’t get the logic behind such a ban. Yes, panhandlers make tourists uncomfortable and citizens feel guilty. But what’s the point of fining people who have no means to pay? Will meaningless tickets really deter them from panhandling in high-traffic areas?
More importantly, why focus energy on sweeping the problem under the carpet instead of pushing for real solutions like more affordable housing?
For proposals that do make sense, in my humble opinion, check out the Toronto Disaster Relief Committee‘s “One Percent Solution.” Along with a description of the plan, there’s also link to endorse the solution online.