Bel Air mayor files opposition to state'level bill on unhoused encampments; commissioners voice concerns

Mayor Eddings told the board she filed a written statement to the Maryland General Assembly opposing House Bill 487, cross-filed as Senate Bill 484, a proposal described in the hearing materials as addressing civil actions and an affirmative defense for unhoused individuals.

"It really it will codify what had happened in San Francisco," the mayor said, and she told commissioners her written testimony argued the policy “doesn't really help the homeless” and could remove enforcement options that local law enforcement and outreach workers use to encourage people to seek shelter and services. She described the bill as a dramatic policy change and said the town's position was filed in time for the hearing scheduled the following day.

Commissioner Taylor and Commissioner Chance both voiced strong opposition to the state bill in the meeting. Commissioner Taylor said the town and county experience shows such laws can reduce the willingness of individuals to seek services and increase public-health and safety challenges. The town police chief also commented that the bill would “hamstring” local efforts and remove a tool used when encampments form on public property.

No formal municipal action was recorded beyond the mayor filing written testimony. Commissioners said they and others around the state would likely add their voices at the state level.