Local government; prohibit ordinances authorizing camping on public property and sidewalks.
If enacted, SB2145 would amend existing laws to clarify that no county or municipality may permit camping on public property. This includes clarification of penalties associated with obstructing free passage, which could result in fines or imprisonment for violations. Supporters of the bill argue that it would prevent safety hazards and maintain public order, especially in areas where camping could obstruct pathways for pedestrians and vehicles.
Senate Bill 2145 seeks to establish a new section in the Mississippi Code that prohibits local governments from enacting ordinances that authorize camping on streets, roads, sidewalks, or any other public property. This legislation aims to address concerns regarding the management of public spaces and the implications of allowing camping in urban environments. By ensuring a state-wide uniformity regarding this issue, the bill aims to streamline regulations associated with public property usage and enhance public safety.
Notable points of contention regarding SB2145 include concerns about its impact on homeless populations who may rely on public spaces for temporary shelter. Critics argue that the bill might exacerbate issues of homelessness by criminalizing the act of camping rather than providing solutions. Additionally, there is debate about whether such prohibitions could lead to an increase in ticketing and arrests, disproportionately affecting vulnerable populations.