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Committee passes bill restricting cross-jurisdiction relocations of people experiencing homelessness
Summary
SB 17-88 prohibits using public funds to relocate homeless people across jurisdictional lines without approval from the receiving municipality and requires verification that services are available; committee passed the bill after amendments removing some penalties and clarifying law‑enforcement exceptions.
Chairman Reeves presented SB 17-88 after field reports that individuals were being transported and left in downtown public spaces without local coordination. The bill would bar the use of public funds for relocation unless the originating jurisdiction verifies that services exist in the receiving jurisdiction and the receiving local government approves the move; it would also allow the receiving jurisdiction to seek injunctive relief if relocations occur without authorization.
Committee members debated the measure's intent and drafting. Senator Garnhauer and others said the bill addresses problematic "dumping" practices, while members from Chattanooga and other border communities warned the bill could impede programs that voluntarily return people to family or support in other jurisdictions. Two amendments—one removing certain fines and another exempting local law enforcement transfers—were adopted. The committee passed the bill (7 ayes, 3 no) and it will move to the calendar.
