Kansas House Bill HB2430

Kansas 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/20/23
• Refer: 2/20/23
• Failed: 4/30/24

Caption

Providing for requirements for use of funds allocated to agencies for the purpose of supporting unhoused individuals and creating penalties for unauthorized camping on government-owned land.

Impact

The bill is particularly impactful for political subdivisions with a higher per-capita rate of homelessness than the state average. Such subdivisions will face funding restrictions, as they will not receive state funds designated for addressing homelessness unless they comply with the bill's provisions. This requirement may compel local governments to align their policies with state mandates in order to secure necessary funding for homelessness support.

Summary

House Bill 2430, also known as the Safe Cities Act, seeks to establish strict requirements for the use of state funds allocated to support unhoused individuals. This legislation mandates that state agencies must provide funds to local subdivisions, while also introducing penalties for unauthorized use of state lands. The bill aims to bolster enforcement against public camping and obstruction of public rights-of-way by preventing local governments from discouraging the enforcement of related ordinances.

Contention

Debate surrounding HB 2430 has focused on the balance between local control and state enforcement. Proponents argue that the bill is essential for addressing visibility issues related to homelessness in public spaces, citing the need for law enforcement to manage public camping effectively. However, opponents contend that the legislation undermines local governments' ability to address the unique circumstances and needs of their communities, potentially criminalizing the unhoused rather than focusing on support and solutions.