INDIANA — The Indiana legislature recently passed a law that would prohibit individuals from sleeping in public spaces, narrowly passing the House in a 53-44 vote.
Opponents to the law state that it would criminalize those who are experiencing homelessness. Proponents say it’ll help connect them to essential services.
The measure bans camping, sleeping or long-term sheltering on land owned by the state or a unit of local government, making it a Class C misdemeanor for violations. It carries a penalty of up to 60 days in jail and a fine of up to $500.
Officers would be required to decide if a person was gravely disabled and qualified for an involuntary hold — a group that includes people who lack regular shelter and are living outdoors through dangerous weather conditions, and have refused transportation to a shelter or mental health service provider with available slots.
First-time violators would receive a warning and be given information on shelter and services. All those still within a 300-foot radius more than 48 hours later could be charged. However, a lack of available beds at a shelter or treatment facility within five miles of where the violation occurred could be used as reasons to not charge the individual.
The 2025 point-in-time count identified 1,815 people experiencing homelessness in Marion County (Indianapolis), marking a 7% increase from the previous year and the highest number since 2021 according to the Coalition for Homelessness Intervention & Prevention (CHIP).