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Lawmakers debate immigration enforcement bill and 'criminalization' of homelessness; local leaders voice civil‑liberties concerns
Summary
Senator Yoder and Representative Pierce described Senate Bill 76 (immigration enforcement measures) and SB285 (measures addressing camping/homelessness). Local advocates, law‑enforcement groups and civil‑rights organizations cautioned SB76 may duplicate federal law and SB285's 48‑hour move-on rule could undercut efforts to connect people to services.
During the chamber update Senator Shelly Yoder and Representative Matt Pierce discussed immigration and homelessness legislation now moving through the General Assembly. Yoder said SB76 would require cooperation with federal immigration enforcement and described it as "virtue signaling" in parts; she noted law‑enforcement associations have opposed the bill.
Advocates at the meeting raised civil‑liberties and operational concerns. Maria Douglas summarized coalition objections to SB76, saying it risks Fourth Amendment violations, duplicates federal law and would expose local governments to costly litigation and workforce harm. "Other states with similar laws saw people, including United States citizens, held too long and filed lawsuits," she said, and urged attendance at an upcoming House Judiciary hearing.
On homelessness, Yoder criticized SB285 for criminalizing camping with a 48‑hour requirement that local leaders say does not allow enough time to connect people to services. She described the bill as a copy of policy advocated by the Cicero Institute and said it would hamper trust-building and service delivery.
Next steps: SB76 was expected to be heard in the House Judiciary Committee; sponsors and opponents can propose amendments in committee hearings.
