Bill > H4783

This bill proposes to establish comprehensive legal protections for individuals experiencing homelessness by defining key terms and establishing specific rights. The legislation defines "homeless" broadly to include people sharing housing due to economic hardship, living in temporary shelters, camping grounds, or vehicles, and residing in non-traditional living spaces. It creates an affirmative legal defense for individuals performing life-sustaining activities (such as sleeping, eating, or protecting themselves from elements) when no adequate alternative indoor space is available, effectively preventing criminal prosecution for necessary survival actions. The bill grants homeless individuals the right to use public spaces without discrimination, including the ability to conduct life-sustaining activities, use public accommodations, solicit donations, maintain privacy of personal property, practice religion, and park and relocate vehicles used for living. The legislation allows individuals or the state attorney general to file civil actions against government agencies or officials who violate these rights, with courts empowered to provide equitable relief and mandatory attorney's fees for prevailing plaintiffs. Named the "Gloria Johnson Anti-Cruelty to Bay Staters Experiencing Homelessness Act," the bill aims to protect the basic human rights and dignity of homeless individuals by preventing criminalization of survival activities and ensuring access to public spaces.

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https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H4783