Phoenix Council Considers Criminal Penalty for Giving Out Food, Medical Care in City Parks

The ordinance is being used to push local harm reduction workers out of city parks, but medical experts and other groups call the move a public health disaster waiting to happen.

By: John Washington (he/him)

Outlets: LOOKOUT

Published: April 3, 2026

Words: 1,219

Last Updated: 2 months ago

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In a small room on the 18th floor of Phoenix City Hall, about 20 people gathered to discuss a newly expanded proposed city ordinance that would severely restrict both food and medical provision in city parks.

The ordinance — which LOOKOUT was first to report on in December — is scheduled to be discussed and voted on at the May 6 City Council meeting. It would allow only two permits per park per month for …

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