SPOKANE VALLEY -- The city is exploring the issue of panhandling and is looking at ways to potentially curtail that activity.

Devon Haskins/KREM 2

A Spokane Valley study suggest panhandlers can earn up to $40 per hour.

A city study revealed that some panhandlers can earn between $30 and $40 per hour.

Two of the more popular locations for panhandlers in the Valley are at the intersection of Sullivan and Interstate 90 and the area around the city's Wal-Mart store.

Despite seemingly high earnings, panhandlers all too frequently suffer from substance abuse problems, have criminal records and are unemployed, according to the study.

Most of them; however, are not homeless, said the study.