ACLU-WA statement on the City of Seattle’s passage of drug, prostitution ‘stay out’ zones 

Jazmyn Clark, smart justice policy program director 

“Proposals like SOAP and SODA do not work and cruelly target our most vulnerable populations, including those struggling with poverty and substance use disorder. The policies expand police powers to harass individuals based on their perceived status, disrupting essential services for those in need rather than addressing the root causes of their issues. Exclusion zones like SOAP and SODA have been tried before and have consistently failed to achieve their intended goals. Research has shown that these zones do not reduce crime or improve public safety. Instead, Seattle should turn to evidence-based strategies and community-based initiatives that are proven to work – uplifting the community, promoting equity, and providing meaningful support to those in need – rather than relying on punitive measures.”