Q: Can a homeless shelter force you to sign a new contract giving up your right to searching your living unit & personals?

A: In California, while homeless shelters do have the right to establish rules and guidelines to ensure the safety and well-being of all residents, these rules must also respect the rights of the individuals they serve. The requirement to sign a contract that includes consent for searches of your living unit and personal belongings can be a part of these guidelines, especially if it's intended to ensure the safety of the shelter environment. However, the enforcement of such policies must balance with respect for individual privacy rights under state and federal laws.

Regarding restrictions on loitering in public places, such as parks and businesses, this is more complex. Public spaces are generally available for use by everyone, and imposing restrictions on loitering in these areas as a condition of shelter residence could raise legal and ethical questions. The shelter's policies should not infringe upon basic rights or lead to discriminatory practices. It's important that these rules are applied fairly and do not unfairly penalize or stigmatize residents.

If you feel that a shelter's contract is overreaching or infringes on your rights, it may be beneficial to seek legal advice. Legal aid organizations and advocacy groups for the homeless may offer support and guidance on how to address these concerns. Understanding your rights is crucial in these situations, and there may be legal avenues available to challenge policies that are deemed unreasonable or unlawful.