NC Coalitions Push Back Against Bill to Ban Homeless Encampments
Two major North Carolina housing coalitions are urging communities to speak out against a bill that would criminalize homeless encampments and impose new requirements on service providers.
RALEIGH, NORTH CAROLINA — Two statewide advocacy coalitions are urging homeless service providers, local elected officials, and others to contact state lawmakers about their concerns over House Bill 437, which would ban unauthorized homeless encampments across North Carolina and designate homeless service facilities as drug-free zones.
The N.C. Coalition to End Homelessness and the N.C. Housing Coalition issued a joint statement arguing that H437 would create financial, operational, and legal challenges for communities already struggling to meet housing and service needs for people experiencing homelessness.
What the Bill Would Do
Under H437, homeless encampments would be prohibited outside of officially approved, city-maintained sites. Municipalities would need to designate a location on municipal property for homeless camps, but only when indoor shelters lack sufficient space, and only for periods of less than one year at a time.
The bill would also establish that facilities providing services to people experiencing homelessness are drug-free zones. Local governments would be required to provide restrooms at approved encampment sites, according to NC Newsline.
Coalition Opposition
Stephanie Watkins-Cruz, director of housing policy for the N.C. Housing Coalition, said the legislation takes the wrong approach to addressing homelessness in the state.
“Communities need practical solutions that address homelessness through housing, treatment, and support services, not mandates that shift costs and liabilities onto local taxpayers and organizations,” Watkins-Cruz said in the joint statement.
The two coalitions urged lawmakers to consult with local government leaders, service providers, faith leaders, and law enforcement agencies before moving the bill forward.
Bill’s Path Through the Legislature
Senate lawmakers revived H437 last week when the Senate Judiciary Committee adopted an amendment based on a controversial bill from last year. That earlier version passed the House but stalled in the Senate. According to NC Newsline, the bill now has a clearer path to reach the governor’s desk.
The renewed push has drawn immediate pushback from advocacy groups, who are mobilizing to ensure local voices are heard before the legislation advances further through the General Assembly.
