Plain English Summary
This bill prohibits local governments in North Carolina from allowing unauthorized camping or sleeping on public property, with limited exceptions. Local governments may designate one property for up to one year as a camping site only if they meet strict state requirements including adequate shelter beds elsewhere, proper sanitation, health services, and departmental certification.
Arguments in Favor
Supporters argue this bill addresses public safety and quality-of-life concerns in communities by preventing encampments in public spaces. They contend it encourages coordination between local governments and state agencies to provide structured services—including mental health and substance abuse treatment—rather than allowing unmanaged camping, and establishes accountability through enforcement mechanisms.
Arguments Against
Opponents argue the bill may criminalize homelessness and fail to address root causes of housing insecurity without guaranteeing adequate shelter alternatives. They contend the strict certification requirements and one-year limitation on designated sites could make it difficult for localities to provide humane solutions, and that enforcement mechanisms could burden both homeless individuals and local governments with legal costs.
AI-generated analysis based on bill text. Always verify with official sources at ncleg.gov. This is not legal or political advice.
Sponsors
Primary Sponsor
Representative · District 70
Primary Sponsor
Representative · District 35
Primary Sponsor
Representative · District 117
Primary Sponsor
Representative · District 78
Cosponsors (7)
Representative · District 79
Representative · District 5
Representative · District 111
Representative · District 94
Representative · District 109
Representative · District 84
Representative · District 113
Vote Breakdown (1 roll call)
Final Vote
On: Second Reading
Party Breakdown