New Bill Seeks To Ban Sitting Or Lying On State Lands
The bill would essentially expand Honolulu’s聽controversial anti-homeless measures.
A state lawmaker has introduced a bill seeking to mimic Honolulu’s controversial policies on homelessness.
, introduced by state Rep. Isaac Choy this week, would essentially expand the city’s sit-lie ban — a series of ordinances that prohibit people from sitting or lying on sidewalks, pedestrian malls and other parts of Oahu.
Choy’s bill would apply the city’s sit-lie ban on state lands and also limit camping to only those with permits or others engaging in some other “authorized activity.”
Choy has also introduced three other bills that could have a significant impact on homeless people’s lives:
would remove the sunset date on the prohibition on public urination and defecation and apply it statewide.
would amend “nuisance abatement” laws to crack down on squatters, who are defined as people “occupying real property to which (they have) no title, lease or other legal claim.”
would give county and state employees immunity from civil liability for impounding or disposing of any personal items illegally stored on public property.
Choy introduced his bills on Wednesday, the same day Senate and House leaders tried to strike a tone of compassion for the homeless in speeches marking the opening of the Legislative session. It isn’t clear how much support Choy’s bills have in either chamber.
