Bill: Homeless Protection Act
Homeless Protection Act Purpose: To ensure that homeless individuals are not harassed, abused or unfairly targeted by law enforcement and to provide necessary assistance to the homeless population. Section 1: Definitions a. Homeless individual - Any person who is without a permanent dwelling, including persons who are living on the streets, in a shelter, or in a vehicle. b. Harassment - Any act or behavior that is intended to cause alarm, distress, or fear to a homeless individual. c. Unfair targeting - The act of singling out homeless individuals for scrutiny or enforcement actions on the basis of their housing status. Section 2: Police Conduct a. Police officers may not harass, abuse or unfairly target homeless individuals. b. Police officers may not take any enforcement action for sleeping, sitting, or lying down in a public place unless the activity creates a substantial and direct threat to public safety or impedes the use of public property. c. Police officers must follow due pro...