NC Senate Panel Revives Ban on Unauthorized Homeless Encampments
State lawmakers advance controversial measure requiring cities to designate official homeless camping sites with strict requirements while banning unauthorized encampments.
RALEIGH, NORTH CAROLINA — State lawmakers moved forward Wednesday with legislation to prohibit homeless encampments outside of official, city-maintained sites across North Carolina.
The Senate Judiciary Committee voted to adopt an amendment reviving a measure from last year that previously passed the House but stalled in the Senate. The provision was attached to House Bill 437, which requires homeless shelters to operate as drug-free zones.
Under the amendment originally sponsored by Rep. Brian Biggs (R-Randolph), local governments would be prohibited from allowing individuals to participate in “unauthorized public camping or sleeping.”
Requirements for Official Camping Sites
The legislation would require municipalities to approve specific locations for homeless camps on municipal property for periods of less than one year at a time. These designated sites would only be permitted when indoor shelters lack sufficient space.
Local governments would be mandated to provide restroom facilities, water access, and public safety personnel at any approved camping locations. Requirements include security measures, sanitation services, running water, and connections to mental health and substance abuse treatment services.
“It does allow local governments to choose to designate an area that’s certified as safe, that’s drug-free, that has access to sanitation and the use of restroom facilities,” said Sen. Brad Overcash (R-Gaston). “It allows for the humane treatment of these homeless persons among us.”
Democratic Opposition
Democratic committee members opposed the amendment’s addition to the bill, though the Republican majority proceeded despite their objections.
Sen. Mutjaba Mohammed (D-Mecklenburg) argued the General Assembly should collaborate with local governments to gather input and understand their specific needs. He criticized the official zone requirement, stating it eliminates homeless individuals’ ability to choose their location.
“They have to have security measures put in place, sanitation services, they have to have access to restrooms, running water, connections to mental health services, connections to substance abuse treatment centers,” Biggs explained regarding the site requirements.
Background on Previous Legislation
The amendment represents a revival of legislation that generated significant debate during the previous legislative session. The original bill successfully passed through the House but failed to advance in the Senate before the session concluded.
The measure comes amid ongoing discussions about how North Carolina communities should address homelessness while balancing public safety concerns and humanitarian considerations. Homeless encampments have been visible in various cities across the state, including Raleigh, where residents have faced periodic relocations.
The amended House Bill 437 will now proceed through the legislative process, requiring additional committee approval and floor votes before potentially becoming law. The legislation’s fate will depend on continued Republican support and whether Democratic concerns about local government input influence the final outcome.
