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Committee advances bill allowing TDOT MOUs to preplan homeless‑encampment responses; advocates warn of costs
Summary
Senate Bill 217 would authorize the Tennessee Department of Transportation to enter memoranda of understanding with local governments and service providers to preplan responses to roadside homeless encampments. The committee approved the bill after testimony from a homeless‑services provider who warned the measure could shift heavy costs and risk
The Transportation and Safety Committee on Oct. 12 approved Senate Bill 217, a measure that would permit the Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT) to enter memoranda of understanding (MOUs) with local governments and nonprofit service providers to preplan responses when homeless encampments appear on state rights‑of‑way.
Why it matters: Sponsors said preplanning will reduce delays and confusion when encampments are reported and help connect people living outdoors to services. A statewide homeless‑services advocate told the committee the bill’s timelines and removal authority risk…
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