(INDIANAPOLIS) -- A proposal that could subject people sleeping on public property to detention or criminal penalties is headed to the Indiana House floor after clearing committee review Wednesday.
Senate Bill 285, authored by Sen. Cyndi Carrasco, R-Indianapolis, would prohibit camping or sleeping on state or local government land. Supporters say the measure aims to address chronic homelessness while improving public safety and connecting people with services.
Under the bill, officers would first determine whether someone qualifies for emergency detention under Indiana's involuntary commitment laws, including cases involving mental illness or unsafe weather conditions. Detention would only apply if shelter or mental health services were offered and refused.
First-time violators who do not qualify for detention would receive a warning. Remaining within 300 feet of the same location more than 48 hours later could result in a Class C misdemeanor, punishable by up to 60 days in jail and a $500 fine.
Supporters say the policy would encourage individuals to seek assistance, while opponents argue the state lacks enough shelter beds and treatment capacity to support enforcement.
The measure advanced from committee on an 8-5 vote and now awaits consideration by the full House.