Summit, New Jersey, is re-evaluating a proposed ordinance to ban homeless encampments that could criminalize homelessness. The original ordinance threatened jail time and hefty fines for those sleeping outdoors. Following public outrage during a lengthy city council hearing, where residents argued it would violate constitutional rights, lawmakers plan to introduce a revised measure protecting those without access to housing from prosecution. Community members can voice their opinions at an upcoming meeting as the council seeks a fair approach to homelessness.
"There's no legal basis for giving an unhoused person a summons, fining them, putting them in jail when their only 'crime' is that they don't have a home."
"The revised ordinance also states that anyone who has no access to 'available indoor housing' cannot be subject to prosecution under the new law."
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