(WBBM NEWSRADIO) – The Johnson Administration on Friday announced exemptions that will allow many new arrivals to remain in city-run shelters if they have exceeded their 60-day limit.
Technically, city officials said they’re making adjustments and not backing down after a political backlash. Still, there are adjustments for families with children under 18; people under quarantine; those who are ill or pregnant; and those on the verge of having more permanent housing.
A relatively small number of people, about 35, will have to go back to the city’s “landing zone” on Sunday and another 2,000 by the end of April will face a similar requirement – effectively, starting from the beginning to find shelter space.
“Those were individuals that entered the shelter system starting 11/16, when we announced our 60-day policy,” said Brandie Knazze, the city’s commissioner of Family and Support Services.
Anyone in a city shelter must now be vaccinated for measles, following an outbreak at a new-arrivals housing facility in Pilsen. Officials say nobody has refused.
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