Gabe Greschler

A bill introduced Monday could see San Francisco welfare recipients being paid if they steer clear of illicit substances.

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A bill introduced Monday could see San Francisco welfare recipients being paid if they steer clear of illicit substances.

Supervisor Matt Dorsey proposed the “Cash Not Drugs” pilot program Monday as a compliment to <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/03/05/san-francisco-election-results-prop-f-drug-welfare/">Proposition F</a>, a ballot measure from March that requires drug screening and treatment for welfare recipients if they are to continue receiving monetary assistance.

Prop. F, requiring drug screening for welfare aid, approved by voters

Supervisor Matt Dorsey proposed the “Cash Not Drugs” pilot program Monday as a compliment to <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/03/05/san-francisco-election-results-prop-f-drug-welfare/">Proposition F</a>, a ballot measure from March that requires drug screening and treatment for welfare recipients if they are to continue receiving monetary assistance.

For those who test negative for drugs, Dorsey’s plan would provide an extra $400 a month. Recipients who will be affected by Proposition F — single adults without children — currently receive $712 per month through the County Adult Assistance Program. Under Dorsey’s bill, those people would now receive up to $1,112 when they test negative for drug use. If passed by the Board of Supervisors, the pilot would go into effect for three years, with its effectiveness overseen by an independent academic researcher.&nbsp;

For those who test negative for drugs, Dorsey’s plan would provide an extra $400 a month. Recipients who will be affected by Proposition F — single adults without children — currently receive $712 per month through the County Adult Assistance Program. Under Dorsey’s bill, those people would now receive up to $1,112 when they test negative for drug use. If passed by the Board of Supervisors, the pilot would go into effect for three years, with its effectiveness overseen by an independent academic researcher.&nbsp;

“This is more carrot than stick,” said Dorsey, <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2022/10/20/matt-dorsey-drug-crisis-addiction-police-san-francisco-supervisor/">who himself is a recovering drug user</a>. “It’s a pretty promising approach.”&nbsp;

Recovering addict Matt Dorsey sells SF on how to solve its drug crisis

“This is more carrot than stick,” said Dorsey, <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2022/10/20/matt-dorsey-drug-crisis-addiction-police-san-francisco-supervisor/">who himself is a recovering drug user</a>. “It’s a pretty promising approach.”&nbsp;

Dorsey’s program has the backing of Mayor London Breed, who placed Prop. F on the ballot.&nbsp;

Dorsey’s program has the backing of Mayor London Breed, who placed Prop. F on the ballot.&nbsp;

A woman who did not want to use her name injects fentanyl into her arm on a curb in the Tenderloin District on Monday, July 4, 2022. Fentanyl and other opioids are common the Tenderloin neighborhood. 

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/FentSurge090622-FEATURE-scaled.jpg?w=2500" alt="A person, wearing multiple bracelets and a black outfit, injects a substance into their forearm using a syringe. The background is slightly blurred." class="wp-image-73687"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Supervisor Matt Dorsey&#8217;s program would complement Proposition F, a controversial ballot measure passed in March that ties welfare payments to drug screening and treatment.</figcaption></figure>

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<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/FentSurge090622-FEATURE-scaled.jpg?w=2500" alt="A person, wearing multiple bracelets and a black outfit, injects a substance into their forearm using a syringe. The background is slightly blurred." class="wp-image-73687"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Supervisor Matt Dorsey's program would complement Proposition F, a controversial ballot measure passed in March that ties welfare payments to drug screening and treatment.</figcaption></figure>

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/FentSurge090622-FEATURE-scaled.jpg?w=2500" alt="A person, wearing multiple bracelets and a black outfit, injects a substance into their forearm using a syringe. The background is slightly blurred." class="wp-image-73687"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Supervisor Matt Dorsey&#8217;s program would complement Proposition F, a controversial ballot measure passed in March that ties welfare payments to drug screening and treatment.</figcaption></figure>

The mayor’s ballot measure — which will go into effect Jan. 1 — passed by a hefty margin this spring, with 58% of voters in support.&nbsp;

The mayor’s ballot measure — which will go into effect Jan. 1 — passed by a hefty margin this spring, with 58% of voters in support.&nbsp;

The bill saw a deluge of cash to help it pass, with its advocates raising more than half a million dollars, including from tech executives <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/12/21/chris-larsen-ripple-labs-san-francisco-london-breed-ballot-measures/">such as Ripple chairman Chris Larsen</a>. Those opposed to the measure, who argued it would take away vital assistance from the city’s most vulnerable, raised around $37,000.&nbsp;

Tech boss tops list of donors to Breed&#8217;s March 2024 ballot measures

The bill saw a deluge of cash to help it pass, with its advocates raising more than half a million dollars, including from tech executives <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/12/21/chris-larsen-ripple-labs-san-francisco-london-breed-ballot-measures/">such as Ripple chairman Chris Larsen</a>. Those opposed to the measure, who argued it would take away vital assistance from the city’s most vulnerable, raised around $37,000.&nbsp;

The bill’s passage comes amid skepticism over the city’s plan to combat the drug-related overdose crisis, which has taken the lives of thousands of San Franciscans over the last five years. Some leaders, including the mayor, <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/02/26/mayor-takes-aim-at-harm-reduction-says-strategy-has-furthered-fentanyl-crisis/">have taken a swing at more progressive drug treatment strategies</a>, including “harm reduction,” an approach that tries to lessen the adverse effects of drug usage through needle exchanges or safe consumption sites.

Breed blames harm reduction strategy for surging drug overdose deaths

The bill’s passage comes amid skepticism over the city’s plan to combat the drug-related overdose crisis, which has taken the lives of thousands of San Franciscans over the last five years. Some leaders, including the mayor, <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/02/26/mayor-takes-aim-at-harm-reduction-says-strategy-has-furthered-fentanyl-crisis/">have taken a swing at more progressive drug treatment strategies</a>, including “harm reduction,” an approach that tries to lessen the adverse effects of drug usage through needle exchanges or safe consumption sites.

The plan Dorsey announced Monday is part of a drug treatment strategy known as “contingency management,” which rewards individuals for positive behavior as a reinforcement mechanism. The San Francisco Department of Public Health oversees several similar programs on a small scale. Dorsey said the costs of the program could be reimbursable through Medi-Cal.

The plan Dorsey announced Monday is part of a drug treatment strategy known as “contingency management,” which rewards individuals for positive behavior as a reinforcement mechanism. The San Francisco Department of Public Health oversees several similar programs on a small scale. Dorsey said the costs of the program could be reimbursable through Medi-Cal.

Keith Humphreys, a Stanford professor who worked on drug policy for the Obama administration, said there is evidence that the contingency management approach can make an impact.

Keith Humphreys, a Stanford professor who worked on drug policy for the Obama administration, said there is evidence that the contingency management approach can make an impact.

“It has been done all over the country,” Humphreys wrote in a text message. “There are over 150 clinical trials supported by the National Institute of Health that have shown positive effects.”

“It has been done all over the country,” Humphreys wrote in a text message. “There are over 150 clinical trials supported by the National Institute of Health that have shown positive effects.”

The city’s welfare program, known as the County Adult Assistance Program (CAAP), has about 5,700 recipients. Homeless residents can also receive cash assistance, though they are paid a reduced rate of $109 a month.

The city’s welfare program, known as the County Adult Assistance Program (CAAP), has about 5,700 recipients. Homeless residents can also receive cash assistance, though they are paid a reduced rate of $109 a month.

Dorsey told The Standard that the financial impact of his program was not immediately apparent. Dorsey said the payment of $400 a month is not set in stone, and he is instructing the city to experiment with increasing weekly payments tied to successive negative drug tests. He said if the program is successful, he could see it being expanded to more CAAP recipients as a preventative measure rather than merely a treatment strategy. If every person in CAAP succeeded in Dorsey’s plan with the $400 payout, it would equal roughly $27 million in extra costs for the city, though the likely price tag is much smaller.

Dorsey told The Standard that the financial impact of his program was not immediately apparent. Dorsey said the payment of $400 a month is not set in stone, and he is instructing the city to experiment with increasing weekly payments tied to successive negative drug tests. He said if the program is successful, he could see it being expanded to more CAAP recipients as a preventative measure rather than merely a treatment strategy. If every person in CAAP succeeded in Dorsey’s plan with the $400 payout, it would equal roughly $27 million in extra costs for the city, though the likely price tag is much smaller.

“I would rather get this right and scale up,” said Dorsey, who noted that the city is going through a tough budgetary season. “But let&#8217;s get it right first.”

“I would rather get this right and scale up,” said Dorsey, who noted that the city is going through a tough budgetary season. “But let's get it right first.”

“I would rather get this right and scale up,” said Dorsey, who noted that the city is going through a tough budgetary season. “But let&#8217;s get it right first.”

Stay sober, earn cash: New bill gives welfare recipients extra $400 for avoiding drugs 

Josh Koehn

San Francisco Supervisor <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2022/10/20/matt-dorsey-drug-crisis-addiction-police-san-francisco-supervisor/">Matt Dorsey</a> told The Standard he plans to call for a hearing this week to review how small businesses were negatively impacted by the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit after <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/11/21/san-francisco-businesses-suffered-major-losses-during-apec-owners-say/">reports of major drops in customers</a>.

San Francisco businesses suffered major losses during APEC, owners say

San Francisco Supervisor <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2022/10/20/matt-dorsey-drug-crisis-addiction-police-san-francisco-supervisor/">Matt Dorsey</a> told The Standard he plans to call for a hearing this week to review how small businesses were negatively impacted by the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit after <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/11/21/san-francisco-businesses-suffered-major-losses-during-apec-owners-say/">reports of major drops in customers</a>.

Tens of thousands of people came to San Francisco for the weeklong geopolitical summit in mid-November, making the gathering the largest international event the city has hosted since the United Nations convened in 1945. However, the security fences set up to protect <a href="https://sfstandard.com/search/?query=apec">APEC</a> leaders, including U.S. President Joe Biden and Chinese President Xi Jinping, created a heavily guarded security perimeter around Moscone Center, where most meetings took place.

Tens of thousands of people came to San Francisco for the weeklong geopolitical summit in mid-November, making the gathering the largest international event the city has hosted since the United Nations convened in 1945. However, the security fences set up to protect <a href="https://sfstandard.com/search/?query=apec">APEC</a> leaders, including U.S. President Joe Biden and Chinese President Xi Jinping, created a heavily guarded security perimeter around Moscone Center, where most meetings took place.

Dorsey, whose district includes the South of Market area affected by the security zone, said he heard complaints from a “multitude” of residents and businesses. On Tuesday, he plans to submit a request for a hearing by the city’s Budget and Finance Committee.

Dorsey, whose district includes the South of Market area affected by the security zone, said he heard complaints from a “multitude” of residents and businesses. On Tuesday, he plans to submit a request for a hearing by the city’s Budget and Finance Committee.

“I think the city and its partners at the state and federal level did a good job in staging a historic event,” Dorsey said. “I think this showcased San Francisco to the world in a good way and this was generally successful. But like in anything else, there are winners and losers, and I heard from small business and residents who suffered undue hardships. I want to do everything I can to advocate for them.”

“I think the city and its partners at the state and federal level did a good job in staging a historic event,” Dorsey said. “I think this showcased San Francisco to the world in a good way and this was generally successful. But like in anything else, there are winners and losers, and I heard from small business and residents who suffered undue hardships. I want to do everything I can to advocate for them.”

David Cohen, CEO of the company that oversees the Grove on Mission Street, said the restaurant saw revenue dip 40% during the APEC conference, with about 1,300 fewer customers than a normal week.

David Cohen, CEO of the company that oversees the Grove on Mission Street, said the restaurant saw revenue dip 40% during the APEC conference, with about 1,300 fewer customers than a normal week.

“We stayed open to be a part of this event to showcase the city, and we saw a huge sales drop,” Cohen said. “It destroyed our financials.”

“We stayed open to be a part of this event to showcase the city, and we saw a huge sales drop,” Cohen said. “It destroyed our financials.”

Dorsey, who frequently holds meetings at the Grove on weekends, said he also heard from a pet grooming business that didn’t do well because of the security perimeter. The supervisor acknowledged that such a business was likely to be harder hit than others during APEC, but he hopes a hearing will allow other residents and business owners to provide a fuller picture of the impacts.

Dorsey, who frequently holds meetings at the Grove on weekends, said he also heard from a pet grooming business that didn’t do well because of the security perimeter. The supervisor acknowledged that such a business was likely to be harder hit than others during APEC, but he hopes a hearing will allow other residents and business owners to provide a fuller picture of the impacts.

“I don’t think anybody is flying in from around the world to groom their dogs, and people not being able to come in and out of the area is critical to that business,” Dorsey said. “I think a hearing is a good opportunity to identify businesses that suffered hardships.”

“I don’t think anybody is flying in from around the world to groom their dogs, and people not being able to come in and out of the area is critical to that business,” Dorsey said. “I think a hearing is a good opportunity to identify businesses that suffered hardships.”

Overall, San Francisco received mostly positive reviews for its handling of APEC. Many city officials viewed the summit as a pivotal moment to reset the narrative on a city that has been the subject of frequent criticism in the media. How the city handles the aftermath of APEC may be even more important for local businesses and residents.

Overall, San Francisco received mostly positive reviews for its handling of APEC. Many city officials viewed the summit as a pivotal moment to reset the narrative on a city that has been the subject of frequent criticism in the media. How the city handles the aftermath of APEC may be even more important for local businesses and residents.

Garrett Leahy contributed to this story.

Garrett Leahy contributed to this story.

Editor’s Note: This story has been updated to note that The Grove’s traffic was down about 1,300 customers, according to the owners.

Editor’s Note: This story has been updated to note that The Grove’s traffic was down about 1,300 customers, according to the owners.

These San Francisco small businesses say APEC crushed them. An official wants answers

Mike Ege

Calling attention to a national political and cultural touchstone of the times, San Francisco Supervisor Matt Dorsey is urging the city to proclaim July 28 and 29 as Taylor Swift Weekend to coincide with her performances at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara.&nbsp;

Calling attention to a national political and cultural touchstone of the times, San Francisco Supervisor Matt Dorsey is urging the city to proclaim July 28 and 29 as Taylor Swift Weekend to coincide with her performances at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara.&nbsp;

“As you may know all too well, Taylor Swift is a music industry icon and an advocate for change,” Dorsey said, citing the singer-songwriter’s turn toward liberal activism since 2018, and describing her as “a once-in-a-generation talent who has captivated people like a fireworks show.”

“As you may know all too well, Taylor Swift is a music industry icon and an advocate for change,” Dorsey said, citing the singer-songwriter’s turn toward liberal activism since 2018, and describing her as “a once-in-a-generation talent who has captivated people like a fireworks show.”

Most recently, Swift used her platform to urge fellow Tennesseeans to get to the polls early and vote in special elections.&nbsp;

Most recently, Swift used her platform to urge fellow Tennesseeans to get to the polls early and vote in special elections.&nbsp;

Memphis Rep. Justin Pearson, recently expelled from the state house for allegedly violating rules of decorum while protesting lawmakers&#8217; refusal to pass gun safety laws, is running for his seat <a href="https://www.localmemphis.com/article/news/politics/elections/early-voting-memphis-tennessee-house-district-86-special-election/522-2933ef67-4673-462d-b80a-45982693932b" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">in a special election</a> after being reinstated. The Democrat faces challenger Jeff Johnston.&nbsp;

Memphis Rep. Justin Pearson, recently expelled from the state house for allegedly violating rules of decorum while protesting lawmakers' refusal to pass gun safety laws, is running for his seat <a href="https://www.localmemphis.com/article/news/politics/elections/early-voting-memphis-tennessee-house-district-86-special-election/522-2933ef67-4673-462d-b80a-45982693932b" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">in a special election</a> after being reinstated. The Democrat faces challenger Jeff Johnston.&nbsp;

Memphis Rep. Justin Pearson, recently expelled from the state house for allegedly violating rules of decorum while protesting lawmakers&#8217; refusal to pass gun safety laws, is running for his seat <a href="https://www.localmemphis.com/article/news/politics/elections/early-voting-memphis-tennessee-house-district-86-special-election/522-2933ef67-4673-462d-b80a-45982693932b" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">in a special election</a> after being reinstated. The Democrat faces challenger Jeff Johnston.&nbsp;

In <a href="https://variety.com/2020/music/news/taylor-swift-political-song-documentary-miss-americana-1203473948/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">a 2020 Variety interview</a>, Swift said her disappointment over the 2018 midterm election results in her home state inspired her song “Only the Young,” which accompanied her concert documentary film Miss Americana.

In <a href="https://variety.com/2020/music/news/taylor-swift-political-song-documentary-miss-americana-1203473948/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">a 2020 Variety interview</a>, Swift said her disappointment over the 2018 midterm election results in her home state inspired her song “Only the Young,” which accompanied her concert documentary film Miss Americana.

“I saw a lot of young people’s hopes dashed,” Swift says in the interview. “And I found that to be particularly tragic, because young people are the people who feel the worst effects of gun violence, and student loans and trying to figure out how to start their lives and how to pay their bills, and climate change, and are we going to war—all these horrific situations that we find ourselves facing right now.”

“I saw a lot of young people’s hopes dashed,” Swift says in the interview. “And I found that to be particularly tragic, because young people are the people who feel the worst effects of gun violence, and student loans and trying to figure out how to start their lives and how to pay their bills, and climate change, and are we going to war—all these horrific situations that we find ourselves facing right now.”

A global superstar, Swift maintains a home in Nashville as well as in New York, Los Angeles and Rhode Island.&nbsp;

A global superstar, Swift maintains a home in Nashville as well as in New York, Los Angeles and Rhode Island.&nbsp;

District 6 Supervisor Matt Dorsey, center, and San Francisco Public Works workers and District 6 volunteers stand on a street corner during a community cleaning and beautification day near the intersection of Mission St. and 8th St. on October 15, 2022. | Kori Suzuki for The Standard

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/INLINED3_SoMaNeighborhoodFuture06092023-scaled.jpg?w=2500" alt="" class="wp-image-177669"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">District 6 Supervisor Matt Dorsey, center | Kori Suzuki for The Standard</figcaption></figure>

Dorsey accompanied his introduction to the Taylor Swift Weekend idea with a speech infused with the pop star’s lyrical references and citing the influence of “the Taylor Swift lobby” with his legislative staff, “four passionate Swifties in my office to whom I committed to be fearless before August slips away into a moment of time.”

Dorsey accompanied his introduction to the Taylor Swift Weekend idea with a speech infused with the pop star’s lyrical references and citing the influence of “the Taylor Swift lobby” with his legislative staff, “four passionate Swifties in my office to whom I committed to be fearless before August slips away into a moment of time.”

Despite being seemingly carried away during the speech, Dorsey later told The Standard the reference “was an inside joke” and “rest assured there is no ‘Big Taylor.’”

Despite being seemingly carried away during the speech, Dorsey later told The Standard the reference “was an inside joke” and “rest assured there is no ‘Big Taylor.’”

That said, Taylor Swift’s record-breaking “Eras” tour is having a big impact on local economies, boosting hotel bookings in places like <a href="https://komonews.com/news/local/taylor-swift-seattle-concert-show-eras-tour-lumen-field-stadium-washington-music-boost-economy-tickets-resale-hotel-revenue-bookings-flights-oregon-montana-idaho-vancouver-british-columbia-canada-king-county" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Seattle</a> and <a href="https://www.billboard.com/music/pop/taylor-swift-eras-tour-boosting-hotel-industry-economy-federal-reserve-1235371670/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Philadelphia</a>, the latter stop earning the notice of the region’s <a href="https://finance.yahoo.com/news/taylor-swifts-eras-tour-boosting-210919967.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Federal Reserve Bank</a>.&nbsp;

That said, Taylor Swift’s record-breaking “Eras” tour is having a big impact on local economies, boosting hotel bookings in places like <a href="https://komonews.com/news/local/taylor-swift-seattle-concert-show-eras-tour-lumen-field-stadium-washington-music-boost-economy-tickets-resale-hotel-revenue-bookings-flights-oregon-montana-idaho-vancouver-british-columbia-canada-king-county" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Seattle</a> and <a href="https://www.billboard.com/music/pop/taylor-swift-eras-tour-boosting-hotel-industry-economy-federal-reserve-1235371670/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Philadelphia</a>, the latter stop earning the notice of the region’s <a href="https://finance.yahoo.com/news/taylor-swifts-eras-tour-boosting-210919967.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Federal Reserve Bank</a>.&nbsp;

Tickets for Swift’s Bay Area dates first went on sale last November, and the shock of initial demand caused <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2022/11/17/ticketmaster-cancels-fridays-general-public-taylor-swift-ticket-sale/">a massive meltdown at Ticketmaster</a>.&nbsp;

Ticketmaster cancels Friday&#8217;s general public Taylor Swift ticket sale

Tickets for Swift’s Bay Area dates first went on sale last November, and the shock of initial demand caused <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2022/11/17/ticketmaster-cancels-fridays-general-public-taylor-swift-ticket-sale/">a massive meltdown at Ticketmaster</a>.&nbsp;

State governors <a href="https://www.usatoday.com/story/news/politics/2023/07/12/governors-taylor-swift-eras-tour/70407454007/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">are now wooing</a> Swift. So are newly ascendant liberal political leaders <a href="https://www.billboard.com/music/concerts/pita-limjaroenrat-taylor-swift-eras-tour-thailand-1235367760/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">in Thailand</a>.&nbsp;

State governors <a href="https://www.usatoday.com/story/news/politics/2023/07/12/governors-taylor-swift-eras-tour/70407454007/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">are now wooing</a> Swift. So are newly ascendant liberal political leaders <a href="https://www.billboard.com/music/concerts/pita-limjaroenrat-taylor-swift-eras-tour-thailand-1235367760/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">in Thailand</a>.&nbsp;

Dorsey did, in fact, refer to the economic aspects of the Swift phenomenon in his wistful, whimsical introductory speech, which is definitely worth a watch.&nbsp;

Dorsey did, in fact, refer to the economic aspects of the Swift phenomenon in his wistful, whimsical introductory speech, which is definitely worth a watch.&nbsp;

“Although the concert will take place in our south, there is an invisible string tying Levi&#8217;s Stadium to San Francisco,” Dorsey riffed during roll call. “As the supervisor representing a district known for many tourist destinations, I know places that will welcome the foot traffic and business.&nbsp;

“Although the concert will take place in our south, there is an invisible string tying Levi's Stadium to San Francisco,” Dorsey riffed during roll call. “As the supervisor representing a district known for many tourist destinations, I know places that will welcome the foot traffic and business.&nbsp;

“Although the concert will take place in our south, there is an invisible string tying Levi&#8217;s Stadium to San Francisco,” Dorsey riffed during roll call. “As the supervisor representing a district known for many tourist destinations, I know places that will welcome the foot traffic and business.&nbsp;

“Colleagues, let’s not make this a cruel summer but one where sparks fly, and we can be in a state of grace.”&nbsp;

“Colleagues, let’s not make this a cruel summer but one where sparks fly, and we can be in a state of grace.”&nbsp;

Taylor Swift tour: San Francisco lawmaker proposes dedicating weekend to pop star

George Kelly

In order to quantify so-called &#8220;drug tourism,&#8221; a San Francisco supervisor wants the City Controller&#8217;s Office to produce an annual report tracking the home addresses of people who have been arrested for drug use or who have died from overdoses in the city.

In order to quantify so-called "drug tourism," a San Francisco supervisor wants the City Controller's Office to produce an annual report tracking the home addresses of people who have been arrested for drug use or who have died from overdoses in the city.

In order to quantify so-called &#8220;drug tourism,&#8221; a San Francisco supervisor wants the City Controller&#8217;s Office to produce an annual report tracking the home addresses of people who have been arrested for drug use or who have died from overdoses in the city.

District 6 Supervisor Matt Dorsey said in letters Thursday that an anonymized report would help inform city policymakers about the consequences of <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/12/14/san-francisco-overdose-drug-death-worst-year/">San Francisco&#8217;s drug crisis</a>.

San Francisco suffers worst drug overdose death year on record

District 6 Supervisor Matt Dorsey said in letters Thursday that an anonymized report would help inform city policymakers about the consequences of <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/12/14/san-francisco-overdose-drug-death-worst-year/">San Francisco's drug crisis</a>.

District 6 Supervisor Matt Dorsey said in letters Thursday that an anonymized report would help inform city policymakers about the consequences of <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/12/14/san-francisco-overdose-drug-death-worst-year/">San Francisco&#8217;s drug crisis</a>.

“The report I&#8217;m requesting from the City Controller is necessary to more accurately quantify the extent to which San Francisco is a destination city for open-air drug scenes,&#8221; Dorsey wrote to Angela Calvillo, clerk of the Board of Supervisors.

“The report I'm requesting from the City Controller is necessary to more accurately quantify the extent to which San Francisco is a destination city for open-air drug scenes," Dorsey wrote to Angela Calvillo, clerk of the Board of Supervisors.

“The report I&#8217;m requesting from the City Controller is necessary to more accurately quantify the extent to which San Francisco is a destination city for open-air drug scenes,&#8221; Dorsey wrote to Angela Calvillo, clerk of the Board of Supervisors.

Supervisor Matt Dorsey speaks at a June 2023 press conference.

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/BreedPressConf062923_17-scaled.jpg?w=2500" alt="Supervisor Matt Dorsey speaks at a press conference concerning the city’s thousands of unapproved housing projects, in San Francisco, on June 29, 2023. | Jeremy Chen/The Standard" class="wp-image-178012"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Supervisor Matt Dorsey speaks at a June 2023 press conference.</figcaption></figure>

READ MORE: <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/01/27/un-plaza-drug-activity/">UN Plaza Was Long the Epicenter of San Francisco’s Drug Crisis. Skaters Have Brought a New Vibe</a>

UN Plaza was long the epicenter of San Francisco’s drug crisis. Skaters have brought a new vibe

READ MORE: <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/01/27/un-plaza-drug-activity/">UN Plaza Was Long the Epicenter of San Francisco’s Drug Crisis. Skaters Have Brought a New Vibe</a>

The requested methodology would use commercially available databases to research the residential histories of three populations: those arrested for public drug use, those whose cause of death was an overdose, and recipients of the County Adult Assistance Program.

The requested methodology would use commercially available databases to research the residential histories of three populations: those arrested for public drug use, those whose cause of death was an overdose, and recipients of the County Adult Assistance Program.

It would quantify how long they lived in San Francisco and track their county, state and national origins.

It would quantify how long they lived in San Francisco and track their county, state and national origins.

There were&nbsp;806 overdose deaths in San Francisco&nbsp;in 2023, a record number, up from 647 deaths in 2022, the Department of Public Health reported. The deaths were mostly due to fentanyl.

There were&nbsp;806 overdose deaths in San Francisco&nbsp;in 2023, a record number, up from 647 deaths in 2022, the Department of Public Health reported. The deaths were mostly due to fentanyl.

Dorsey said that current city reporting provides divergent data on what percentage of arrested drug users or overdose victims are San Francisco residents, as opposed to out-of-town visitors who may be attracted by permissive drug policies or a robust social safety net.

Dorsey said that current city reporting provides divergent data on what percentage of arrested drug users or overdose victims are San Francisco residents, as opposed to out-of-town visitors who may be attracted by permissive drug policies or a robust social safety net.

His request cited a June 2023 report that 95% of recent arrests for drug use in the city were of non-San Francisco residents, which the supervisor contrasted with a proposed city resolution stating that 95% of deadly overdoses last year happened to residents.

His request cited a June 2023 report that 95% of recent arrests for drug use in the city were of non-San Francisco residents, which the supervisor contrasted with a proposed city resolution stating that 95% of deadly overdoses last year happened to residents.

Dorsey said more reliable statistics could bring overdue scrutiny to unintended consequences of the city&#8217;s struggles with open drug scenes and free assistance programs.

Dorsey said more reliable statistics could bring overdue scrutiny to unintended consequences of the city's struggles with open drug scenes and free assistance programs.

Dorsey said more reliable statistics could bring overdue scrutiny to unintended consequences of the city&#8217;s struggles with open drug scenes and free assistance programs.

The Coalition on Homelessness said they are deeply concerned about the number of lives being lost to the overdose crisis and said the request for the report amounts to political tactics.

The Coalition on Homelessness said they are deeply concerned about the number of lives being lost to the overdose crisis and said the request for the report amounts to political tactics.

&#8220;Political tactics such as these that attempt to shift blame and divert attention away from real solutions such as the implementation of the DPH overdose prevention plan are irresponsible and misguided,&#8221; Jennifer Friedenbach of the coalition said in an email. &#8220;In addition, looking into &#8216;home addresses&#8217; not only wastes time and energy when lives are at stake—it often misrepresents the real situation, such as individuals who were forced to leave their homes due to abuse are counted as housed from out of town.&#8221;

"Political tactics such as these that attempt to shift blame and divert attention away from real solutions such as the implementation of the DPH overdose prevention plan are irresponsible and misguided," Jennifer Friedenbach of the coalition said in an email. "In addition, looking into 'home addresses' not only wastes time and energy when lives are at stake—it often misrepresents the real situation, such as individuals who were forced to leave their homes due to abuse are counted as housed from out of town."

&#8220;Political tactics such as these that attempt to shift blame and divert attention away from real solutions such as the implementation of the DPH overdose prevention plan are irresponsible and misguided,&#8221; Jennifer Friedenbach of the coalition said in an email. &#8220;In addition, looking into &#8216;home addresses&#8217; not only wastes time and energy when lives are at stake—it often misrepresents the real situation, such as individuals who were forced to leave their homes due to abuse are counted as housed from out of town.&#8221;

San Francisco ‘drug tourism’ report would track address history of city users

In his quest to replenish San Francisco police ranks, Supervisor Matt Dorsey is pivoting after suffering a setback this week.&nbsp;&nbsp;

In his quest to replenish San Francisco police ranks, Supervisor Matt Dorsey is pivoting after suffering a setback this week.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The supervisor’s planned <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/04/13/san-francisco-ballot-measure-would-add-100-new-cops-annually-over-5-years/">ballot measure to hire more cops</a> is being revived as an ordinance after <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/10/30/san-francisco-police-staffing-ballot-measure-city-hall-debate/">colleagues hobbled the original version</a> with what he called “poison pill” changes on Monday.

San Francisco could add 100 new cops annually under ballot measure

Testy debate over San Francisco police staffing erupts at City Hall

The supervisor’s planned <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/04/13/san-francisco-ballot-measure-would-add-100-new-cops-annually-over-5-years/">ballot measure to hire more cops</a> is being revived as an ordinance after <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/10/30/san-francisco-police-staffing-ballot-measure-city-hall-debate/">colleagues hobbled the original version</a> with what he called “poison pill” changes on Monday.

Dorsey asked the city attorney to draft the new ordinance at Tuesday’s Board of Supervisors meeting. Instead of voters weighing in, it will be up to his colleagues to pass.

Dorsey asked the city attorney to draft the new ordinance at Tuesday’s Board of Supervisors meeting. Instead of voters weighing in, it will be up to his colleagues to pass.

RELATED: <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/10/30/san-francisco-police-staffing-ballot-measure-city-hall-debate/">Testy Debate Over San Francisco Police Staffing Erupts at City Hall</a>

RELATED: <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/10/30/san-francisco-police-staffing-ballot-measure-city-hall-debate/">Testy Debate Over San Francisco Police Staffing Erupts at City Hall</a>

“Many times during the committee meeting, it was noted that significant provisions of the measure—those tying real dollars to otherwise empty words on paper—did not need to be in a ballot measure because the mayor (and also this Board of Supervisors, on any given Tuesday) could enact them,” Dorsey told fellow supervisors at Tuesday’s board meeting.

“Many times during the committee meeting, it was noted that significant provisions of the measure—those tying real dollars to otherwise empty words on paper—did not need to be in a ballot measure because the mayor (and also this Board of Supervisors, on any given Tuesday) could enact them,” Dorsey told fellow supervisors at Tuesday’s board meeting.

The new ordinance would do two things. First, it would create a police staffing fund, as in the planned ballot measure, which would support recruitment and hiring to bring the San Francisco Police Department to a full staffing level. Second, it would reappropriate $8.4 million—half of what was proposed in the ballot measure—in the current budget to support “more competitive recruitment.”&nbsp;

The new ordinance would do two things. First, it would create a police staffing fund, as in the planned ballot measure, which would support recruitment and hiring to bring the San Francisco Police Department to a full staffing level. Second, it would reappropriate $8.4 million—half of what was proposed in the ballot measure—in the current budget to support “more competitive recruitment.”&nbsp;

Tenderloin station police officers sit and listen during the San Francisco Police Department’s Police Officer of the Month Ceremony at City Hall, in San Francisco on Wednesday, July 26, 2023. Mayor London Breed and Assistant Police Chief David Lazar spoke at the event, and SFPD Acting Captains Mark Moreno and Matt Mason presented the awards for the months of April, May and June.

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/BreedSFPDOfficerOfTheMonth072623_08.jpg?w=2500" alt="" class="wp-image-214979"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Tenderloin Station officers listen during the San Francisco Police Department’s Police Officer of the Month Ceremony at City Hall on July 26, 2023.</figcaption></figure>

“I think San Franciscans are well served by a vigorous debate over whether and how to accomplish police full staffing as expeditiously as possible—and I plan to submit a similar measure in the future to discuss funding recruitment for next fiscal year,” added Dorsey.&nbsp;

“I think San Franciscans are well served by a vigorous debate over whether and how to accomplish police full staffing as expeditiously as possible—and I plan to submit a similar measure in the future to discuss funding recruitment for next fiscal year,” added Dorsey.&nbsp;

Dorsey expects to introduce the draft ordinance next week and said he’s “hesitant to speculate” what will happen with his original ballot measure.&nbsp;

Dorsey expects to introduce the draft ordinance next week and said he’s “hesitant to speculate” what will happen with his original ballot measure.&nbsp;

At the board’s Rules Committee, the original measure was changed to include what Dorsey characterized as “poison pill” amendments, offered by Supervisor Ahsha Safaí and supported by Supervisor Shamann Walton, that make the staffing mandates depend on the passage of a new tax.

At the board’s Rules Committee, the original measure was changed to include what Dorsey characterized as “poison pill” amendments, offered by Supervisor Ahsha Safaí and supported by Supervisor Shamann Walton, that make the staffing mandates depend on the passage of a new tax.

The meeting was punctuated by rancorous debate among supervisors and was accompanied by an hour of public comment, mostly from labor groups against the measure, reflecting complaints over <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/10/11/san-francisco-mayor-orders-budget-cuts/#">recent budget cuts</a> and low pay of other first responders such as 911 dispatchers.&nbsp;

San Francisco mayor says budget cuts &#8216;cannot wait&#8217; as $500M deficit looms

The meeting was punctuated by rancorous debate among supervisors and was accompanied by an hour of public comment, mostly from labor groups against the measure, reflecting complaints over <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/10/11/san-francisco-mayor-orders-budget-cuts/#">recent budget cuts</a> and low pay of other first responders such as 911 dispatchers.&nbsp;

Dorsey’s new ordinance is sure to amplify the differences between moderate, progressive and swing vote supervisors on how to address the city’s drug overdose crisis and crime issues. Much like a resolution submitted Tuesday by Supervisor Hillary Ronen calling on Mayor London Breed to “initiate an emergency hiring plan” for recruitment and retention of behavioral health workers.

Dorsey’s new ordinance is sure to amplify the differences between moderate, progressive and swing vote supervisors on how to address the city’s drug overdose crisis and crime issues. Much like a resolution submitted Tuesday by Supervisor Hillary Ronen calling on Mayor London Breed to “initiate an emergency hiring plan” for recruitment and retention of behavioral health workers.

“Supervisor Dorsey continues to push for more [police],” Ronen told supervisors at her roll call speech Tuesday. “Meanwhile, we have had a growing number of vacancies, up to 144 in our beleaguered behavioral health program at [the Department of Public Health], and we have not heard a word, which is very telling.”&nbsp;

“Supervisor Dorsey continues to push for more [police],” Ronen told supervisors at her roll call speech Tuesday. “Meanwhile, we have had a growing number of vacancies, up to 144 in our beleaguered behavioral health program at [the Department of Public Health], and we have not heard a word, which is very telling.”&nbsp;

San Francisco lawmaker revives push to staff up police force

Brooke Jenkins on public safety and Democrats’ next steps

Following national election losses, the Democratic Party is searching for answers on how to win back voters. San Francisco District Attorney Brooke Jenkins, a tough-on-crime Democrat, won resoundingly in her first full-term bid. She joins The Standard’s Han Li and Joe Fitzgerald Rodriguez to discuss how Democrats should change course, her strategies to enhance public safety, and more.

The future of San Francisco's Mid-Market neighborhood

Join The Standard's Jillian D'Onfro and Kevin V. Nguyen as they discuss the evolution of one of San Francisco's hardest-hit neighborhoods with Simon Bertrang, executive director of SF New Deal; Jeannie Kim, CEO of Bridge Hospitality Management Group; and Randy Shaw, executive director of the Tenderloin Housing Clinic. They'll be broadcasting live from the historic Hibernia building and will be taking your questions!

The future of San Francisco’s Mid-Market neighborhood

Is fine dining consuming San Francisco?

Join Sara Deseran, The Standard's food editor, along with Laurence Jossel, chef-owner of Nopa, and Ryan Cole, CEO of Hi Neighbor Hospitality Group (7 Adams and Trestle), for a talk about the tectonic shift in the city's restaurants — and, more important, why we might be at risk of losing our sweet spot: the mid-level.

Kawakami & Lombardi Talk 49ers

San Francisco Standard sports columnists Tim Kawakami and David Lombardi discuss the Niners' 2024 season.

Final Week: Nima Momeni trial

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Week 5: Nima Momeni trial

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Week 4: Nima Momeni trial

Developments in the Bob Lee murder trial: This Friday, Jonah Owen Lamb and Beki San Martin will talk about how Nima Momeni’s defense team is building its case. And, as always, we’ll answer your questions about the trial.

A post-election conversation with Congressman Ro Khanna

Join The Standard's Politics Editor Annie Gaus as she sits down with Congressman Ro Khanna to discuss the outcomes of the election and its implications for San Francisco and beyond.

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