CNN - Quick Vote Question re Panhandling
 

Should cities ban panhandling near tourist sites?

As one would expect (or at least I would), votes are overwhelmingly in favor.

Wouldn't this be some sort of freedom-of-speech/expression issue?

Panhandlers, telemarketers, kids collecting money in front of stores, letters & phone calls from charities:

I treat them all the same. Sometimes I'll give, sometimes I'll follow Mrs. Reagan's advice and "JUST SAY NO". I don't need Big Brother monitoring for everything that I dislike, or there's never by broiled liver on any restaurant menu again.

that was to be "there'd never be broiled..." (fat finger syndrome)

No.

It should be banned not only near tourist sites but everywhere. Absolutely.

Of what is panhandling a free expression?

Cassandra,

I believe that "panhandling" is merely "asking for money and is protected free speech.

If the panhandler acts overtly agressively....touching you or blocking your way...that would change things and would not be protected speech.

Now, MHS, I want a sticker "I voted".
(I actually did it on CNN website.)


RB, mmmmm, liver pate! If you add some mushrooms to it, even better!

As to whether one should give money to panhandlers, I've been struggling with this question for a long time and I still don't know the right answer.

I was raised a Christian and was always taught to "give to all who ask", yet there's no question this only perpetuates the suffering of these people. The fact is, if no one gave panhandlers money they'd be forced to find help in other, far more constructive ways.

On the other hand, homelessness does sometimes happen to people through no fault of their own, so a strict "never give" policy doesn't ring quite right to me either.