U.S. Supreme Court to consider whether to hear Alabama case on panhandling

The U.S. Supreme Court could take up a case about whether panhandling can be banned. It’s a debate with a Montgomery connection.

The State of Alabama wants the high court to say that panhandling isn’t protected free speech and can be outlawed, with fines and jail time for people who beg for money.

“USA Today” reports that a homeless man from Montgomery has successfully fought Alabama law in lower courts that was used to punish him for panhandling. That’s why the state is appealing to the Supreme Court.

“Our cities cannot manage this crisis without the full measure of their traditional police powers,” Alabama Attorney General Steve Marshall says.  Alabama’s appeal to U.S. Supreme Court  has the support of 19 Republican attorneys general from other states.

The case is scheduled to be considered by the Supreme Court on February 20. Four of the nine justices must want to hear it before the entire court will review it.