A Democratic state representative in Washington state, State Rep. Mia Gregerson, is working on a new bill that aims to protect the civil rights of homeless individuals. The bill seeks to make homelessness a civil right and prevent discrimination based on housing status.
The legislation addresses the issue of laws in various communities within Washington that disproportionately affect homeless individuals or criminalize living in public spaces. The bill argues that these laws may be unconstitutional, hinder efforts to address homelessness, do not solve the underlying problems, and waste public funds.
This initiative comes in light of a recent U.S. Supreme Court ruling that upheld a city’s ability to enforce public-camping ordinances against the homeless. In response, the drafted bill proposes granting homeless individuals the right to exist in a nonobstructive manner on public property, including areas like plazas, courtyards, sidewalks, and public transportation facilities.
The bill also specifies that homeless individuals should have the right to occupy public spaces when existing shelter facilities are inadequate or inaccessible. However, Kevin Schilling, the mayor of Burien, expressed disappointment that the city was not consulted before the legislation was drafted.
In addition to protecting the civil rights of homeless individuals, Mayor Schilling emphasized the importance of expanding substance use disorder programs, increasing emergency shelter capacity, and providing law enforcement assistance to address the multifaceted issue of homelessness effectively.
Efforts to reach State Rep. Mia Gregerson’s office for comment on the bill have been made, but there has been no immediate response. As discussions around homelessness and civil rights continue, it is essential to consider the complexities of the issue and work towards holistic solutions that benefit both homeless individuals and the communities they reside in.
