SB 184
Prohibiting camping in public places
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Sign in to take action- Introduced
- Passed Senate
- Passed House of Delegates
- To Governor
- Became Law
Bill overview
This bill prohibits camping in public places in West Virginia, including sidewalks, streets, parks, and other publicly owned property. It defines ‘camp’ and ‘shelter’ and establishes that a person commits an offense by intentionally camping without consent. Violations are considered misdemeanors and can result in a fine, community service, or a requirement to remove litter from public areas. The bill also mandates offering a free bus ticket to certain cities and provides officers with a duty to offer alternative shelter options and information about services to prevent human trafficking.
Key provisions
- Prohibits camping in public places defined as sidewalks, streets, parks, and other publicly owned property.
- Defines ‘camp’ as residing temporarily with shelter and ‘shelter’ as a place to live.
- Establishes intent as evidenced by activities like cooking, making fires, storing belongings, digging, or sleeping in public spaces.
- Sets a fine of $100 to $1,000 and up to 40 hours of community service for violations.
- Requires officers to offer a free bus ticket to a specified list of cities.
- Allows for litter removal as an alternative to fines and community service.
- Requires officers to provide information about preventing human trafficking and other services.
- Does not preempt local ordinances or regulations regarding public camping, provided they are at least as stringent.
Who is affected
- Individuals experiencing homelessness
- Local government agencies (parks, public works)
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