Louisiana Senate Committee Advances Controversial Anti-Camping Bill Amidst Criticism
A state Senate committee in Louisiana has approved a contentious bill aimed at criminalizing unauthorized camping in public spaces to combat homelessness. Senate Bill 196, introduced by Senator Robert Owen (R-Slidell), seeks to make camping on public property a felony on a second offense. The legislation also grants judges the discretion to establish court programs focused on addressing homelessness, potentially redirecting individuals to mental health and addiction treatment rather than incarceration.
The bill passed with a narrow 4-3 vote in the Senate’s Judiciary B Committee, with all three New Orleans senators opposing it. Advocates and local officials have raised concerns that without additional funding for mental health and addiction services, the bill merely criminalizes poverty. David Larson, from the UNITY of Greater New Orleans’ People’s Council, asserted that sending homeless individuals to jail would do little to solve the underlying issues they face.
Supporters, including Owen and Christopher Walters from Gov. Jeff Landry’s office, argue the bill is designed to address the root causes of homelessness, including mental illness and substance abuse. Gov. Landry recently emphasized the need for legislative reforms to transition people from homelessness to stable housing.
Critics point out the significant strain the bill could impose on New Orleans, which is already experiencing overcrowded jails. Additionally, local officials highlight that the region currently lacks sufficient mental health services to support those in high need.
While the bill’s sponsor acknowledged the need for improvement and compassion in the proposal, the timeline for a full Senate vote remains uncertain. If successful, SB 196 would then proceed to the state House before reaching the governor’s desk for approval.
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