The San Francisco City Commission recently discussed the Safe Streets Act, Senate Bill 276, which aims to address the issue of fencing—the illegal sale of stolen goods—on city streets. This legislation, currently awaiting the governor's signature, is a response to growing safety concerns among residents, businesses, and street vendors.

Diana Ponce de Leon, director of the Office of Economic and Workforce Development (OEWD), and Rafa Moreno, senior program manager, presented the bill's objectives and background. The Safe Streets Act is designed to combat unpermitted vending of commonly stolen items, a problem exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic and changes in state laws. The bill seeks to provide law enforcement with the tools necessary to intervene in these illegal activities while also supporting legitimate street vendors.

The legislation allows the city to compile a list of commonly stolen items, enabling police to issue citations to those selling these goods without permits. It aims to create a safer environment for both vendors and the community by distinguishing between legitimate vendors and those involved in criminal activities. Importantly, the bill excludes food vendors and those with valid permits, ensuring that the focus remains on addressing illegal sales.

The commission emphasized the collaborative effort behind the bill, highlighting input from various community stakeholders, including the Mission Street Vendors Association and local merchants. This grassroots approach has been crucial in shaping the legislation to meet the needs of the community.

Next steps include community outreach to gather feedback on the local implementation of the bill, which is expected to take effect on January 1, 2026, if signed into law. The commission plans to launch a media campaign to inform the public about the new regulations and ensure a smooth rollout.

This initiative reflects San Francisco's commitment to enhancing public safety while supporting economic opportunities for its street vendors, demonstrating a balanced approach to community concerns.