Phoenix changes panhandling laws ahead of Super Bowl

PHOENIX (KSAZ) - They are a part of every major city's landscape, those who say they are down on their luck, so they panhandle to get by.

"You can survive on this, you can make good money on this, it's all in how you do it," said Ronnie.

Ronnie is a panhandler and likes his spot near Phoenix's Cityscape in downtown Phoenix.

"I always stay near food because you know you're going to get something to eat," he said

As Super Bowl 2015 approaches, Cityscape is the crown jewel of downtown Phoenix and is expected to be a happening place.

The NFL experience will be two blocks away at the Phoenix Convention Center where it's expected to draw thousands.

Past Super Bowl host cities including Dallas and Indianapolis have strengthened panhandling laws to discourage the practice.

Phoenix Police and city officials say as long as they obey the law and stay off the streets they will not contact panhandlers.

Downtown residents disagree on whether panhandlers should be discouraged during big events.

"They are a part of the community, they are people just like we are, doing their own thing. I have a home and they don't," said Bill Hemphill.

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Phoenix changes panhandling laws ahead of Super Bowl