Bill > HR4878

This bill, known as the Make Our Streets Safe Again Act (MOSSA Act), aims to address homelessness, mental illness, and public safety through several key provisions. The bill seeks to restore civil commitment practices, allowing for more flexible commitment of individuals with mental illness who pose risks to themselves or others, and encourages states and municipalities to enforce prohibitions on activities like urban camping, loitering, and open drug use. It directs federal agencies to prioritize grant programs for jurisdictions that actively manage homeless populations and address public safety concerns. The bill also seeks to redirect federal resources toward evidence-based treatment programs, specifically targeting substance abuse and mental health services, and away from "harm reduction" approaches. Additionally, it aims to increase accountability in homelessness assistance programs by ending "housing first" policies, requiring treatment participation for those with mental illness or substance use disorders, and preventing sex offenders from being housed with children. The legislation empowers the Attorney General and other federal agencies to take actions like reviewing drug sites, supporting encampment removals, and ensuring more comprehensive housing and treatment strategies. Importantly, the bill includes a rule of construction clarifying that it does not create new legal rights or benefits and does not interfere with budgetary functions.

Justice

https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/house-bill/4878/all-info