Bill > HB297

This bill establishes new regulations regarding homeless encampments in Mississippi, prohibiting individuals from sitting, lying, sleeping, or storing personal property on public rights-of-way within 1,000 feet of sensitive areas (such as schools, parks, and libraries) or critical infrastructure. The bill defines a "homeless encampment" as an outdoor location where homeless people live in unsheltered conditions, including tents, shacks, or vehicles without utility services. Law enforcement must provide a written 48-hour notice before taking enforcement action, and violations can be charged as a misdemeanor with potential fines up to $5,000 and/or six months in jail. The bill also amends existing municipal property nuisance laws to allow local governments to remove homeless encampments on both public and private property, with a provision that allows municipalities to waive the costs of removal for private property. Property owners can request law enforcement assistance in removing encampments, but are required to do so humanely and are prohibited from causing harm to individuals or damaging their belongings. The legislation aims to address public health and safety concerns related to homeless encampments while providing some procedural protections for homeless individuals, and will take effect on July 1, 2025.

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https://billstatus.ls.state.ms.us/2025/pdf/history/HB/HB0297.xml