Gov. Braun holds ceremonial signing for bill banning public camping

INDIANAPOLIS (WPTA) - Governor Mike Braun held a ceremonial signing on Tuesday, signing a bill into law that prohibits sleeping in public spaces in Indiana.

The legislation bans sleeping, camping, and long-term sheltering on property owned by the state or local government.

Those who violate the ban could be issued a Class C misdemeanor, which carries a penalty of up to 60 days in jail and a fine of up to $500.

Per the law, a law enforcement officer must first determine if the person qualifies for an involuntary hold for emergency mental health services.

First-time violators who do not qualify for emergency detention are to be given a warning and information on relevant shelter and support services.

“The purpose of the bill is not criminal action, but moving homeless Hoosiers toward social service networks to help them get needed services and stay safe,” Braun said during the signing ceremony.

WATCH: As Fort Wayne works to address homelessness, officials warn state’s pending ‘public camping’ ban isn’t the answer | Story continues below

The law requires annual reports from local law enforcement officers and recipients of Continuum of Care funding so the state can better measure efforts to reduce homelessness, Braun says.

It also provides diversion options and protections for homeless individuals if an appropriate shelter is not available within five miles.

Braun said he believes the law sets Indiana on the right track to address homelessness, but said he welcomes input from those who think more needs to be done.

“Get a hold of your legislators, there’s another session coming up,” Braun said.

According to the Indiana Capital Chronicle, sheriffs testified against the bill, citing concerns about the costs of housing such offenders.

“It’s going to create overcrowdedness in the jails, which means what? They’re going to go to the (local) council and say, ‘Give us more money to build more jails,’” said Sen. Lonnie Randolph, D-East Chicago. “That’s not the answer. The answer is helping these homeless people by providing the things that they need, like food, shelter and a job — not jail time.”

The law goes into effect on July 1.