HB1413

Summary

State and local policies on homelessness. Cancels the appropriation in the 2023 budget bill for the state's housing first program and reallocates that appropriation to the Indiana housing and community development authority (authority) as follows: (1) Provides that state funds for homelessness must be used for: (A) parking areas; (B) camping facilities; (C) individual shelters; and (D) congregate shelters; and specifies conditions and requirements applicable to those facilities. (2) Provides that state funds otherwise used for permanent housing must be used to assist individuals with substance use, mental health treatment, and other services, including short term housing. Provides that the authority must award certain funds as performance payments for political subdivisions or nonprofit organizations that reduce the number of individuals with days unhoused, days in jail or prison, or days hospitalized. Specifies that a person who owns or operates a private camping facility funded under the bill's provisions is immune from civil liability. 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 under the provisions added by the bill or another 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 for long term shelter commits a Class C misdemeanor. Establishes an affirmative defense to such a prosecution. 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 the attorney general to bring a civil action to enjoin a political subdivision that adopts or enforces such a policy. Makes conforming changes. Makes an appropriation.

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