A BILL FOR AN ACT to amend the Indiana Code concerning local government.

Plain English Breakdown

The bill summary and text do not provide specific consequences for violations beyond the Class C misdemeanor classification.

Law Against Unauthorized Camping on Public Land

This law makes it illegal for people to camp, sleep, or use public land as long-term shelter without permission from the government and sets penalties for violations.

What This Bill Does

• Makes it against the rules to camp, sleep, or use public land as a home unless allowed by law.
• Says that breaking this rule is a small crime if certain conditions are met.
• Allows people who break the rule to go through a special court program instead of jail time.
• Doesn't let local governments make rules that stop others from enforcing camping laws.

Who It Names or Affects

• People who camp or sleep on public land without permission
• Local government officials and agencies

Terms To Know

Class C misdemeanor

A small crime that can result in a fine but not jail time.

Political subdivision

A part of the government, like a city or town within a state.

Limits and Unknowns

• The bill does not specify what happens if someone breaks the camping rules.
• It is unclear how this law will be enforced in different areas.

Official Summary Text

A BILL FOR AN ACT to amend the Indiana Code concerning local government.
Street camping.

Current Bill Text

A BILL FOR AN ACT to amend the Indiana Code concerning local government.

Street camping.

Prohibits an individual from camping, sleeping, or using for long term shelter land owned by the state or a political subdivision, unless the land has been authorized for that use by law. Provides, if certain elements are met, that a person who knowingly or intentionally uses land owned by the state or a political subdivision for unauthorized camping, sleeping, or long term shelter commits a Class C misdemeanor. Allows an individual to be referred to a problem solving court program for a violation. Prohibits a political subdivision from adopting or enforcing any policy that prohibits or discourages the enforcement of any order or ordinance prohibiting public camping, sleeping, or other obstruction of a sidewalk. Authorizes a resident of the political subdivision, an owner of a business located in the political subdivision, or the attorney general to bring a civil action to enjoin a political subdivision that adopts or enforces such a policy.