Bill > HR4182

This bill establishes comprehensive protections for homeless individuals on federal public lands by prohibiting federal agencies from penalizing homeless people for conducting life-sustaining activities. Specifically, the bill allows homeless individuals to engage in essential activities such as resting, sleeping, eating, drinking, storing personal belongings, soliciting donations, using public accommodations, practicing religion, and occupying parked vehicles, without facing legal punishment. The bill defines "life-sustaining activities" broadly and provides that these actions are permitted unless there is truly adequate alternative indoor space available, which must be legally and physically accessible, free of charge, and able to accommodate an individual's personal circumstances including disabilities, pets, and family members. The legislation creates enforcement mechanisms by allowing the Attorney General or harmed individuals to bring civil actions against government officials or agencies that violate these protections, with provisions for awarding legal costs to prevailing plaintiffs. Additionally, the bill establishes a necessity defense for homeless individuals charged with violations related to life-sustaining activities and includes a rule of construction emphasizing that the act should not diminish constitutional protections against cruel and unusual punishment. The bill aims to decriminalize homelessness and protect the basic human rights of individuals experiencing housing insecurity on federal lands.

Transportation and Infrastructure

https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/house-bill/4182/all-info