The Idaho Senate recently approved a bill that bans sleeping outside or in cars in public areas, such as sidewalks, parks, and other public property, in cities with more than 100,000 residents. The legislation criminalizes camping in these areas 24 hours a day and allows the Idaho Attorney General to take action if cities don’t enforce the ban.
Supporters believe it will help reduce public camping and provide clearer enforcement. Opponents argue that it could unfairly target vulnerable people, including families escaping domestic violence. Concerns were raised about the bill taking away local government authority, as the Attorney General could sue cities not adequately enforcing the law.
The bill passed with a 27-8 vote, though some senators expressed concerns about its effectiveness in addressing homelessness and the potential for abuse by police. The legislation highlights the tension between providing shelter and services and criminalizing public camping as a means of managing homelessness in Idaho.