A local group says Albuquerque’s new sidewalk ban targets people facing homelessness and could increase police patrols in city-designated safety zones.

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. – A local group says Albuquerque’s new sidewalk ban targets people facing homelessness and could increase police patrols in city-designated safety zones.

City Council passed the enhanced service and safety zones ordinance last week. Dare to Struggle said the bill disproportionately targets people facing homelessness.

“APD wrongfully harasses us, and the city displaces us, throws away our stuff, harasses us, gives us citations that are unlawful, unjust, and we get displaced and have to start over and over and over again,” said Gabriel Salas.

Salas said the ordinance is not the only issue. The group said the city and police have treated people facing homelessness this way for a long time.

The ordinance still needs action from Mayor Tim Keller, who would designate certain safety zones. Police, Albuquerque Community Safety or city sanitation workers would patrol those areas more.

The ordinance would also make it illegal to sit, sleep or lie on public sidewalks, roads, bike paths or alleys if someone is blocking them.