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HB 5958

Crimes: other; crime of public defecation; establish. Amends 1931 PA 328 (MCL 750.1 - 750.568) by adding sec. 335b.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Pat Outman

Defines public defecation outside a sanitary facility as a misdemeanor with up to 60 days (or 90 near crowds) and fines up to $500.

bill electronically reproduced 05/13/2026
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Bill Summary · HB 5958

Purpose and intent

HB 5958 proposes to add a new section to Michigan’s Penal Code that makes defecating in a public place (outside of a sanitary facility) a misdemeanor offense. The bill defines penalties and clarifies the conditions under which higher penalties apply, aiming to address conduct involving public defecation and related gatherings.

Key provisions and changes

  • New offense: Sec. 335b
    • General rule: An individual who defecates in a public place, other than in a sanitary facility, commits a misdemeanor.
    • Penalties (subsection 1): Up to 60 days imprisonment, a fine of up to $250, or both.
    • Enhanced penalties (subsection 2): If the defecation occurs at or near a gathering of 10 or more individuals, the offense is a misdemeanor with up to 90 days imprisonment, a fine of up to $500, or both.
  • Definition of “public place” (subsection 3): Includes a public street, sidewalk, park, or any area open to the general public in a publicly owned or operated building or public place of business.
  • Effective date (Enacting section 1): The act takes effect 90 days after enactment.

Who/what is affected

  • Individuals who defecate in a public place (as defined by the statute) outside of a sanitary facility would be subject to criminal penalties.
  • The enhanced penalties apply specifically when the act occurs at or near a gathering of 10 or more people.
  • The scope covers conduct in public streets, sidewalks, parks, and public areas of publicly owned or operated buildings or businesses.

Procedural and timeline aspects

  • The bill was introduced and referred to the Committee on Judiciary (as of the latest action history).
  • If enacted, the law would take effect 90 days after enactment.
  • No additional procedural steps (e.g., funding, rulemaking) are specified in the bill text.

Additional notes

  • The bill includes a sponsor (Representative Pat Outman) and a co-sponsor, reflecting its introduction in the 2025-2026 Michigan legislative session.
  • The provisions establish clear criminal penalties but do not provide exemptions, defenses, or related public health considerations beyond defining the offense and its scope.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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