Backers of the measure argue that similar programs are working in other cities. However a survey of the cities mentioned does not support this. Atlanta provides no general assistance to the homeless, only temporary aid to needy families. Atlanta's main approach is to arrest and imprison the homeless. Seattle has emergency vouchers for motel unit but gives people on general assistance cards which may be good for food only.
Some programs put cash in recipients' hands to pay for housing.
New York offers non-cash assistance to drug and alcohol abusers but also gives cash to many recipients. Under Mayor Giuliani, New York has also arrested the homeless in indiscriminate sweeps. Indeed, they warn that Prop E may even put more people on the street. Rebecca Graff of the Housing Rights Committee said that landlords of hotels where tenants on public assistance have been in place for three or four years may welcome Prop E as an opportunity to oust tenants and raise rents. Landlords are free to opt out of the program on the grounds it will increase their costs.