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House approves ban on camping in undesignated public areas after contentious debate
Summary
House Bill 1203 passed after a protracted floor debate and several amendments and motions; supporters said it addresses public safety and blight, while opponents warned it would criminalize homelessness without adequate shelter capacity.
The Mississippi House approved House Bill 12‑03, a measure that bans camping in areas not designated for that use and prescribes civil penalties, after several hours of testimony and a heated floor exchange.
Representative (Heinz) explained the bill, saying it prohibits setting up tents, sleeping bags or other camping materials in public spaces not marked for camping and sets a maximum fine of $50 for a violation in one section; other code cross‑references to existing obstruction statutes were discussed separately and can carry larger penalties…
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