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Chair Carrasco's homelessness bill advances after hours of testimony and amendments
Summary
SB 285, introduced by Chair Carrasco, would make public camping unlawful while prescribing outreach, reporting, and a misdemeanor enforcement process designed to compel services for the chronically unsheltered; witnesses split sharply, amendments extended the required move time to 48 hours, and the committee advanced the bill 8–2.
Chair Carrasco introduced Senate Bill 285 as a statewide response to unsheltered and chronic homelessness, saying the measure prioritizes outreach and intervention while setting statewide rules on camping in public spaces. "This bill is structured so that initial interactions are focused on intervention rather than punishment," the chair said, adding the bill includes misdemeanor provisions intended as a last-resort tool to create moments for outreach and diversion.
Opponents from service organizations, faith groups and providers urged rejection. Brian Moschel of Indiana United Ways warned SB 285 would divert limited public and…
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