RELATING TO ENCAMPMENTS.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Daniel Holt and 11 co-sponsors

Bill HB 877 establishes buffer zones around schools to prohibit encampments, enhancing safety for students and staff while impacting those living in encampments nearby.

Carried over to 2026 Regular Session.

#bufferzone #encampments #prohibition #schools

Purpose and Intent

Bill HB 877 aims to establish regulations concerning encampments, particularly in relation to their proximity to schools. The primary intent is to create buffer zones that prohibit encampments within a specified distance from educational institutions, thereby enhancing the safety and well-being of students and school staff.

Key Provisions

Buffer Zone Establishment: The bill proposes the creation of buffer zones around schools where encampments would be prohibited. The specific distance for these buffer zones is not detailed in the provided information but is typically defined in legislative texts.

Prohibition of Encampments: Encampments within the designated buffer zones would be subject to prohibition, which aims to mitigate potential safety concerns and disruptions to the educational environment.

Amendments: The bill has been reported with amendments in HD 1, although the specific changes made in this version are not detailed in the summary provided.

Affected Parties

Students and School Staff: The primary beneficiaries of this legislation would be students and staff at schools located near encampments, as the bill seeks to enhance their safety and learning environment.

Encampment Residents: Individuals residing in encampments may be directly affected by the prohibition, as it could require relocation if they are found within the established buffer zones.

Local Governments and Law Enforcement: The implementation of this bill may involve local authorities and law enforcement agencies, who would be responsible for enforcing the buffer zone regulations.

Legislative Timeline

Introduced: January 21, 2025

First Reading: January 23, 2025

Committee Hearings:

Scheduled for January 30, 2025, where the committee on HSH recommended passing the bill with amendments.
Reported from HSH on February 4, 2025, with a recommendation for passage on Second Reading.

Second Reading: Passed on February 4, 2025, with a referral to the committee on EDN for further consideration.

Conclusion

Bill HB 877 seeks to address concerns related to encampments near schools by establishing buffer zones to prohibit such encampments. The bill has progressed through the legislative process, receiving amendments and recommendations for passage, and is currently under consideration by the Education Committee (EDN). The outcome of this bill could significantly impact the safety and environment of educational institutions in the affected areas.

Bill