Indianapolis, January 15, 2026
A Texas-based think tank has renewed efforts to legislate against homeless encampments in Indiana. The proposed bill aims to make it a Class C misdemeanor for individuals sleeping in public spaces, potentially leading to arrests and fines. Advocacy groups oppose the measure, arguing that it fails to address underlying issues of homelessness and could exacerbate the challenges faced by vulnerable populations. The legislation reflects ongoing debates about how best to handle homelessness within the state.
Indianapolis, Indiana: Texas-Based Think Tank Revives Push to Ban Homeless Encampments at Statehouse
Indianapolis, Indiana – A Texas-based think tank has reignited efforts to ban homeless encampments in Indiana by introducing new legislation at the Statehouse. This move marks the latest attempt to criminalize homelessness in the state, following previous unsuccessful efforts in 2025.
New Legislation Introduced
The Cicero Institute, a Texas-based think tank, has introduced legislation aimed at prohibiting homeless encampments in Indiana. The proposed bill seeks to make it a Class C misdemeanor for individuals to camp, sleep, or use public land for long-term shelter without authorization. Violators could face penalties of up to 60 days in jail or a $500 fine. Law enforcement officers would be required to issue warnings and offer transportation to authorized shelters before making arrests. However, individuals could use the defense that no legal shelter was available within five miles.
Background on Previous Efforts
In 2025, similar legislation was introduced in Indiana. House Bill 1662, authored by Rep. Michelle Davis, sought to criminalize sleeping on government-owned land. The bill required law enforcement to give individuals sleeping outside a warning and offer transportation to the nearest shelter. If they refused, they had 24 hours to move or face arrest and a Class C misdemeanor charge. The bill did not advance in the Indiana House. Additionally, language to criminalize homelessness was added to Senate Bill 197 but was removed after public outcry and advocacy efforts. Despite these setbacks, the Cicero Institute’s recent proposal indicates a continued push to address homelessness through legal measures.
Responses from Advocacy Groups
Homelessness advocacy groups have expressed strong opposition to the new legislation. They argue that criminalizing homelessness does not address the root causes of the issue and can exacerbate the challenges faced by individuals experiencing homelessness. Advocates emphasize the need for comprehensive solutions, including increased access to affordable housing, mental health services, and employment opportunities, rather than punitive measures.
Potential Implications
If enacted, the proposed legislation could lead to increased arrests and fines for individuals experiencing homelessness in Indiana. This approach may strain local law enforcement resources and further marginalize vulnerable populations. The debate over this legislation highlights the ongoing tension between punitive measures and supportive services in addressing homelessness.
Conclusion
The introduction of new legislation by the Cicero Institute to ban homeless encampments in Indiana reflects a persistent effort to criminalize homelessness. While proponents argue it is necessary for public safety, critics contend that it fails to address the underlying issues contributing to homelessness. The outcome of this legislative proposal will significantly impact the state’s approach to homelessness and the well-being of its residents.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the Cicero Institute’s proposed legislation?
The Cicero Institute, a Texas-based think tank, has introduced legislation at the Indiana Statehouse aiming to prohibit homeless encampments. The bill seeks to make it a Class C misdemeanor for individuals to camp, sleep, or use public land for long-term shelter without authorization, with penalties of up to 60 days in jail or a $500 fine.
What were the previous attempts to criminalize homelessness in Indiana?
In 2025, House Bill 1662 was introduced, seeking to criminalize sleeping on government-owned land. The bill required law enforcement to give individuals sleeping outside a warning and offer transportation to the nearest shelter. If they refused, they had 24 hours to move or face arrest and a Class C misdemeanor charge. The bill did not advance in the Indiana House. Additionally, language to criminalize homelessness was added to Senate Bill 197 but was removed after public outcry and advocacy efforts.
How have advocacy groups responded to the new legislation?
Homelessness advocacy groups have expressed strong opposition to the new legislation, arguing that criminalizing homelessness does not address the root causes of the issue and can exacerbate the challenges faced by individuals experiencing homelessness. They emphasize the need for comprehensive solutions, including increased access to affordable housing, mental health services, and employment opportunities, rather than punitive measures.
What are the potential implications of the proposed legislation?
If enacted, the proposed legislation could lead to increased arrests and fines for individuals experiencing homelessness in Indiana. This approach may strain local law enforcement resources and further marginalize vulnerable populations. The debate over this legislation highlights the ongoing tension between punitive measures and supportive services in addressing homelessness.
What is the current status of the legislation?
The Cicero Institute’s proposed legislation is currently under consideration at the Indiana Statehouse. The outcome of this legislative proposal will significantly impact the state’s approach to homelessness and the well-being of its residents.
Key Features of the Proposed Legislation
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Criminalization of Homelessness | Proposes making it a Class C misdemeanor for individuals to camp, sleep, or use public land for long-term shelter without authorization. |
| Penalties | Violators could face up to 60 days in jail or a $500 fine. |
| Law Enforcement Requirements | Officers must issue warnings and offer transportation to authorized shelters before making arrests; individuals can use the defense that no legal shelter was available within five miles. |
| Previous Legislative Attempts | Similar legislation in 2025, including House Bill 1662 and amendments to Senate Bill 197, did not advance due to public opposition and advocacy efforts. |
| Advocacy Group Response | Homelessness advocacy groups oppose the legislation, advocating for comprehensive solutions like affordable housing and mental health services instead of punitive measures. |
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