HB 1662 would have banned the homeless from street camping on public property. The bill did not have enough support to pass the House this session.
The Indiana bill, Senate Bill 146, which aimed to prohibit homeless individuals from camping on public streets, has failed to progress in the state House of Representatives. The legislation, which had passed the Senate, was met with opposition due to concerns over its constitutionality and the potential for it to criminalize homelessness rather than address the underlying issues. Critics argued that the bill did not provide solutions for housing or support services for the homeless. Instead of moving forward, the House decided to focus on a different approach, with a study committee now tasked to explore more comprehensive solutions to homelessness, including housing, mental health, and substance abuse treatment. This shift reflects a broader recognition of the need for supportive rather than punitive measures for addressing homelessness.