Bill > HB07033

This bill establishes legal protections for homeless individuals when performing essential daily activities in public spaces. The legislation defines key terms, including a "homeless person" as per federal guidelines and "activities of daily living" such as sleeping, eating, seeking shelter, accessing medical care, and using hygiene facilities. The bill prohibits municipalities from creating ordinances or taking actions that discriminate against homeless individuals' use of public spaces. Specifically, homeless persons are granted rights to conduct daily activities on public land without obstructing traffic, use public accommodations without discrimination, solicit or share donations, maintain privacy of personal property, practice religion, and occupy motor or recreational vehicles under certain conditions. If a municipality or person violates these provisions, they can be assessed a civil penalty between $50 and $100 per offense, which can be pursued through a civil action by the Attorney General on behalf of an aggrieved person. The law includes important exceptions, such as not applying to school grounds and requiring that daily activities do not create safety hazards. The bill is set to take effect on July 1, 2025, and aims to protect the civil rights and basic human needs of individuals experiencing homelessness.

Housing and Urban Affairs

Housing Committee (Joint)

https://www.cga.ct.gov/asp/cgabillstatus/cgabillstatus.asp?selBillType=Bill&bill_num=HB07033&which_year=2025